Primaquine
Prescription neededMalaria medicines
Comes as:Tablet
Usual adult dose
Dose is set by your doctor. Usually taken once a day for 14 days after chloroquine to stop vivax malaria coming back. A G6PD test should be done first. Take with food.
Your doctor may give you a different dose. Children's doses depend on weight.
Side effects
Common
- nausea
- stomach pain (take with food)
Serious — get help
Stop taking it and see a doctor straight away if you notice:
- dark urine
- pale skin
- tiredness or shortness of breath (breakdown of red blood cells in G6PD deficiency)
Do not take it, or take care, if
- G6PD deficiency (test first)
- Pregnancy
- Breastfeeding a baby whose G6PD status is not known
- Children under 6 months
Interactions
No important interactions are listed in our database. Still tell your doctor or pharmacist everything you take.