Sulfadoxine/Pyrimethamine (By Mouth)

Pyrimethamine (peer-i-METH-a-meen), Sulfadoxine (sul-fa-DOX-een)

Treats malaria.

Brand Name(s):

Fansidar
There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you have ever had an allergic reaction to any sulfa drug or to pyrimethamine. You should not use this medicine if you are breastfeeding, are in the last 3 months of pregnancy, or if you have severe kidney or liver disease or a blood disorder. This medicine should not be given to infants under 2 months of age.

How to Use This Medicine:

Tablet

• Your doctor will tell you how much to take and how often. You should not use this medicine more often or in greater amounts than your doctor ordered.
• This medicine may be taken with food or milk if it upsets your stomach.
• Drink plenty of water while taking this medicine.
• Take the medicine for as long as your doctor has ordered, even if you feel better.

If a dose is missed:

• Take the missed dose as soon as possible.
• If it is almost time for your next regular dose, wait until then to take the medicine and skip the missed dose.
• You should not use two doses at the same time.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

• Store the tablets in a tightly closed container, away from heat, light, and moisture.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are also taking chloroquine (Aralen®), or sulfa antibiotics such as Gantrisin®, Septra®, or Bactrim®.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor before taking this medicine.
• Talk to your doctor if you have kidney or liver disease, or any blood problems.
• If you develop a skin rash, stop taking this medicine immediately and call your doctor.
• This medicine can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. Avoid being in the sun for long periods of time and use sunscreen while you are taking this medicine.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Extreme tiredness
• Painful urination
• Skin rash, hives, or itching
• Swollen face, lips, or tongue
• Unexplained fever, sore throat, or cough
• Unusual bleeding or bruising
• Wheezing or trouble breathing
• Yellowing of skin and eyes

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Diarrhea
• Headache
• Irritability, mood changes
• Nausea, vomiting, or upset stomach

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.