Sulfadoxine/Pyrimethamine – Oral, Fansidar
WARNING: Sulfadoxine/pyrimethamine can cause severe, sometimes fatal allergic reactions. These reactions usually start with a skin rash. Stop taking sulfadoxine/pyrimethamine at the first sign of a rash and seek immediate medical attention. Sulfadoxine/pyrimethamine can also cause severe bleeding, low red blood cell count (anemia), or serious infections. If you experience unusual bruising/bleeding, signs of low red blood cell count, or symptoms of a severe infection, stop this medication and seek immediate medical attention.
USES: This medication contains sulfadoxine and pyrimethamine. It is used to treat malaria caused by mosquito bites in countries where malaria is common. It kills the malaria parasites living inside red blood cells. In some cases, you may need to take a different medication to kill the malaria parasites living in other body tissues. Both medications may be needed for a complete cure and to prevent the return of infection.
PRECAUTIONS: Before taking sulfadoxine/pyrimethamine, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to either sulfadoxine or pyrimethamine, to other "sulfa" drugs, or if you have any other allergies. This medication should not be used during pregnancy. It may harm an unborn baby. Consult your doctor for more details.
HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth after a meal, exactly as directed by your doctor. Do not crush or chew the tablets. Take this drug with at least a full glass of fluid. Drink lots of fluids for the next 7 to 10 days to prevent severe kidney problems. Dosage is based on your weight, medical condition, and response to treatment.
SIDE EFFECTS: Nausea, vomiting, or headache may occur. Tell your doctor if any of these effects persist or worsen. This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: The effects of some drugs can change if you take other drugs or herbal products at the same time. This can increase your risk for serious side effects or may cause your medications not to work correctly. Your doctor or pharmacist can often prevent or manage interactions. Be sure to tell your doctor and pharmacist about all the products you use before starting treatment with this product.
OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact a poison control center or emergency room immediately.
NOTES: Do not share this medication with others. If you take this medication for longer than 3 months, laboratory and/or medical tests should be performed periodically. Consult your doctor for more details.
MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
STORAGE: Store at room temperature away from light and moisture. Keep all medicines away from children and pets. Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company for more details about how to safely discard your product.
