Primaquine: how to take it safely
Primaquine
Reviewed by Pharm. Abeeb Junior
What it is for
Clears the liver stage of some types of malaria (vivax and ovale) to stop relapse.
How to take it
- Prescription medicine: take it exactly as your doctor or pharmacist told you.
- Swallow with water, with food.
- Take every dose of the course.
When to take it
Take it once a day, usually for 7 to 14 days.
Take it with
With food.
What to avoid
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding, unless your doctor says so.
- Missing your G6PD test. Tell your doctor if you have G6PD deficiency or if it has not been checked.
- Alcohol.
Possible side effects
Stomach upset, nausea, mild stomach cramps.
Get help if
Dark urine, pale skin, yellow eyes, blue lips or severe weakness: stop it and get urgent help.
This is general information, not personal medical advice. Always follow your doctor's or pharmacist's instructions and read the leaflet that comes with your medicine. Medicines and doses can differ between products and people.