Primaquine Phosphate Tablets IP 2.5 mg Uses
Primaquine Phosphate Tablets IP 2.5 mg is primarily used in the treatment of malaria, specifically to prevent relapses of Plasmodium vivax and Plasmodium ovale malaria. It is often used in combination with other antimalarial medicines like chloroquine to achieve a complete cure. This medicine is also used for the radical cure of malaria, meaning it helps eliminate the dormant liver stages of the parasite that can cause a relapse weeks or months later.
How Primaquine Phosphate Tablets IP 2.5 mg works
Primaquine belongs to a class of drugs called antimalarials. It works by interfering with the growth and reproduction of the malaria parasite in the body. Specifically, it targets the hypnozoites (dormant liver forms) of P. vivax and P. ovale, which are not affected by other antimalarials. By eliminating these liver stages, primaquine prevents future relapses of malaria.
Common side effects of Primaquine Phosphate Tablets IP 2.5 mg
Like all medicines, primaquine can cause side effects, although not everyone gets them. Common side effects include:
- Nausea or vomiting
- Stomach cramps or abdominal pain
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Darkening of urine (may indicate a serious condition, especially in people with G6PD deficiency)
- Decreased white blood cell count (rare)
If you experience severe side effects such as dark urine, yellowing of skin or eyes, or unusual tiredness, seek medical attention immediately.
Expert advice for Primaquine Phosphate Tablets IP 2.5 mg
- Before taking primaquine, inform your doctor if you have a history of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency, as this medicine can cause severe hemolytic anemia in such individuals.
- Do not take primaquine during pregnancy, especially in the first trimester, unless specifically advised by your doctor.
- Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not stop or change the dose without consulting your doctor.
- If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular schedule. Do not double the dose.
- Keep this medicine out of reach of children and store it at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
Jan Aushadhi price and availability
Primaquine Phosphate Tablets IP 2.5 mg is available at Jan Aushadhi Kendra (Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana) stores across India at an affordable price. The MRP for a strip of 10 tablets is ₹9.38, making it a cost-effective option for malaria treatment. You can find this generic medicine at your nearest Jan Aushadhi store, ensuring quality at a fraction of the cost of branded alternatives.
Safety note
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist before starting any new medicine. Verify the composition, strength, and suitability of this medicine for your condition. Do not self-medicate for malaria; proper diagnosis and treatment are essential.