Daraprim (Pyrimethamine)

Indications

Daraprim is a medication used to treat parasitic infections, specifically toxoplasmosis. Pyrimethamine is typically administered in combination with an antibiotic called sulfadiazine. Daraprim contains pyrimethamine, which belongs to a class of drugs known as antiparasitics. It works by killing parasites. Daraprim is available in tablet form and is taken orally.

Daraprim is a medication typically used in adults and children to treat or prevent certain types of malaria. However, it is not the preferred medication for preventing malaria while traveling. When used to treat malaria, Daraprim should be used alongside a faster-acting anti-malaria drug, such as chloroquine or quinine.

Uses and Dosage

Daraprim tablet is typically taken orally once or twice daily, or as directed by your doctor. Take the medication with food to decrease nausea and vomiting. If severe vomiting occurs, your doctor may adjust your dose or direct you to stop taking the medication. Do not take more or less of this drug than prescribed. Do not stop taking it before completing this prescription unless directed to do so by your doctor, even if you feel better. Skipping or changing your dose without approval from your doctor may cause the number of parasites to increase, make the infection more difficult to treat (resistant), or worsen side effects.

The recommended dosage of Daraprim depends on the specific condition being treated, as well as the patient's age, weight, and medical history.

• For toxoplasmosis, the recommended dosage of Daraprim is typically 50-75 mg per day, taken orally in divided doses for several weeks.
• For malaria, the dosage may vary based on the severity of the infection and the patient's weight but is typically given in combination with other medications such as artesunate.

Side effect

Common Side Effects of Daraprim (Pyrimethamine):

• Vomiting
• Loss of appetite

Serious Side Effects of Daraprim (Pyrimethamine):

• A red or purple skin rash that spreads (especially in the face or upper body) and causes blistering and peeling
• Blood in your urine
• Burning in your eyes
• Cold or flu symptoms
• Difficulty breathing
• Easy bruising
• Feeling sick or unwell
• Fever
• Hives
• Irregular heartbeats
• Loss of appetite
• Mood changes
• Mouth sores
• New or worsening cough
• Pale skin
• Purple spots under your skin
• Skin pain
• Skin rash (no matter how mild)
• Sore throat
• Stomach discomfort
• Swelling in your tongue
• Swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat
• Unusual tiredness

Form and Strength

Daraprim (Pyrimethamine) is available in the following forms and strength

Daraprim: Tablet

• 25 mg

Caution

• Daraprim should be used with caution in patients who have impaired renal or hepatic (liver) function. Patients with folate deficiency should use Daraprim with caution.
• Pyrimethamine (the active ingredient in Daraprim) can cause hemolytic anemia in patients with a genetic condition called glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency.
• Daraprim should be used with caution in pregnant women and only if the benefits outweigh the risks.
• Patients taking Daraprim may experience side effects such as nausea, vomiting, and rash, and should inform their healthcare provider if they experience any adverse effects.
• Pyrimethamine can cause bone marrow suppression, which can lead to low blood cell counts and increase the risk of infection and bleeding.
• Daraprim may interact with other medications, including anticoagulants, anti-seizure drugs, and certain antibiotics, and caution should be exercised when using Daraprim in combination with these medications.
• Patients with a history of hypersensitivity to pyrimethamine or other components of Daraprim should not use the medication.
• Daraprim may cause fetal harm and should only be used during pregnancy if the benefits clearly outweigh the risks.
• Daraprim may interact with certain vitamins and supplements, including folic acid, and caution should be exercised when taking supplements in combination with Daraprim.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How is Daraprim typically administered?

Daraprim is usually taken orally, with or without food. The exact dosage and duration of treatment will depend on the patient's condition and medical history.

Is Daraprim effective in treating toxoplasmosis?

Yes, Daraprim is an effective treatment for toxoplasmosis when used in combination with other medications.

Is Daraprim safe for pregnant women?

The safety of Daraprim during pregnancy has not been fully studied, and therefore it should only be used during pregnancy if the benefits clearly outweigh the risks.

Can Daraprim be used by children?

Yes, Daraprim can be used to treat children with toxoplasmosis or malaria. However, the dosage and duration of treatment may need to be adjusted based on the child's age and medical history.

Resources

• https://www.drugs.com/mtm/daraprim.html
• https://www.goodrx.com/pyrimethamine/fda-approves-daraprim-generic-pyrimethamine
• https://www.rxlist.com/daraprim-drug.htm
• https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=5368616d-6520-6f6e-2053-686b72656c69
• https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-634/daraprim-oral/details