Primaquine (By mouth)

Primaquine (PRIM-a-kwin)

Treats malaria and prevents it from coming back after treatment (relapse).

Brand Name(s):

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

This medicine is not right for everyone. Do not use it if you had an allergic reaction to primaquine, or if you have severe rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or severe G6PD deficiency, or if you are pregnant.

How to Use This Medicine:

Tablet

• Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.
• Take all of the medicine in your prescription to clear up your infection, even if you feel better after the first few doses.
• Missed dose: Take a dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and take a regular dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.
• Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

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

• Do not use this medicine together with quinacrine or medicines that can cause bleeding or bone marrow problems.
• Some medicines can affect how primaquine works. Tell your doctor if you are using medicine for heart rhythm problems, including disopyramide, procainamide, or quinidine.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• This medicine may cause birth defects if either partner is using it during conception or pregnancy. Tell your doctor right away if you or your partner becomes pregnant. Women should use an effective form of birth control to keep from getting pregnant during and after treatment with this medicine. Male patients who have female partners should use effective birth control during treatment with this medicine and for at least 3 months after the last dose. If you think you have become pregnant while using this medicine, tell your doctor right away.
• Tell your doctor if you are breastfeeding, or if you have heart disease, G6PD deficiency, or a history of heart rhythm problems or blood disorders (including anemia, favism, or NADH reductase deficiency).
• This medicine may cause changes in heart rhythm, including QT prolongation.
• This medicine may make you bleed, bruise, or get infections more easily. Take precautions to prevent illness and injury. Wash your hands often.
• Your doctor will do lab tests at regular visits to check on the effects of this medicine. Keep all appointments.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

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

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
• Dark urine
• Fainting, dizziness, lightheadedness
• Trouble breathing, tiredness, uneven heartbeat, yellow skin or eyes

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

• Headache
• Nausea, upset stomach, cramps, vomiting

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

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088

Last Updated: 4/23/2024