Primaquine is used alone or with another medication to treat malaria (a serious infection that is spread by mosquitoes in certain parts of the world and can cause death) and to prevent the disease from coming back in people that are infected with malaria. Primaquine is in a class of medications called antimalarials. It works by killing the organisms that cause malaria.
Primaquine comes as a tablet to take by mouth. It is usually taken once a day for 14 days. Take primaquine at around the same time every day. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take primaquine exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often or for a longer period of time than prescribed by your doctor.
Take primaquine until you finish the prescription, even if you feel better. If you stop taking primaquine too soon or skip doses, your infection may not be completely treated.
Primaquine is also sometimes used to treat Pneumocystis jiroveci pneumonia (lung disease caused by fungus). Talk to your doctor about the risks of using this drug for your condition.
This medication may be prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, continue your normal diet.
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
nausea
vomiting
heartburn
abdominal cramps
tiredness
pale skin
shortness of breath
fast heartbeat
yellowing of the skin or eyes
dark colored urine
headache
lack of energy
grey-bluish color of lips and/or skin
nervousness
seizure
weak pulse
confusion
sore throat, fever, cough, or other signs of infection
fainting
dizziness
blurred vision
Primaquine may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems while taking this medication.
Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.
In case of overdose, call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim has collapsed or is not breathing, call local emergency services at 911.
abdominal cramps
vomiting
heartburn
grey-bluish color of lips and/or skin
headache
lack of energy
nervousness
seizure
weak pulse
confusion
fainting
dizziness
blurred vision
Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. Your doctor may order certain lab tests to check your body's response to primaquine.
Before having any laboratory test, tell your doctor and the laboratory personnel that you are taking primaquine.
Do not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.
It is important for you to keep a written list of all of the prescription and nonprescription (over-the-counter) medicines you are taking, as well as any products such as vitamins, minerals, or other dietary supplements. You should bring this list with you each time you visit a doctor or if you are admitted to a hospital. It is also important information to carry with you in case of emergencies.
Last Reviewed - 09/01/2010
AHFS® Consumer Medication Information. © Copyright, 2012. The American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc., 7272 Wisconsin Avenue, Bethesda, Maryland. All Rights Reserved. Duplication for commercial use must be authorized by ASHP.