Sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine: how to take it safely
Fansidar, SP
Reviewed by Pharm. Abeeb Junior
What it is for
Prevents malaria in pregnancy, and is used for seasonal malaria prevention in young children.
How to take it
- Prescription medicine: take it exactly as your doctor or pharmacist told you.
- Swallow with water. For prevention it is given as a few tablets in a single dose.
When to take it
Take it at scheduled clinic visits, as your health worker says. Do not take it more often.
Take it with
With or without food.
What to avoid
- Taking it more often than advised.
- Folic acid higher than 0.4 mg a day during treatment. Ask your health worker.
- Co-trimoxazole (Septrin) at the same time.
- Tell your doctor if you are allergic to sulfa drugs.
Possible side effects
Nausea, headache, dizziness, mild rash.
Get help if
Rash, blisters, mouth sores, sore throat, fever or yellow skin or eyes: 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.