Important Note

The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.

PRIMAQUINE PHOSPHATE - ORAL

(PRIM-uh-kwin FOSS-fate)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Primaquine

Uses

This medication is used to prevent and treat malaria.

How To Use

Take this medication by mouth as directed. This may be taken with food if stomach upset occurs. For best results, take each dose at evenly spaced intervals around the clock. This will ensure a constant level of medication in your blood. Take this medication for the full time prescribed. Stopping therapy too soon may result in a reinfection.

Side Effects

Stomach upset, stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite or muscle weakness may occur especially the first several days as your body adjusts to the medication. If any of these effects continue or become bothersome, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you develop any of these effects while taking this medication: rash, rapid heart rate, changes in vision, hearing trouble, ringing in the ears, dark urine. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions

Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: blood disorders, arthritis, psoriasis, lupus erythematous, any enzyme deficiencies, liver disease, any allergies. This medication should be used only if clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known if this medication appears in breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Drug Interactions

Tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription medication you may take especially: quinacrine, anti-cancer medications. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

Overdose

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include stomach cramps, vomiting, heartburn, and bluish discoloration of skin.

Notes

Laboratory tests will be done periodically while taking this medication to monitor its effects.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as remembered; do not take it if it is near the time for the next dose, instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.

Storage

Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 to 30 degrees C) away from heat and light. Do not store in the bathroom.

Medical Alert

Your condition can cause complications in a medical emergency. For enrollment information call MedicAlert at 1-800-854-1166 (USA), or 1-800-668-1507 (Canada).