When working with Primaquine, an oral antimalarial that targets dormant liver stages of Plasmodium parasites. Also known as primaquine phosphate, it is the only drug reliably used to clear hypnozoites, the hidden forms that cause relapses. primaquine is a must‑know for anyone dealing with malaria, especially the vivax and ovale species that love to hide in the liver. Another key player here is Malaria, a mosquito‑borne disease caused by Plasmodium parasites, which still claims hundreds of thousands of lives each year. Because primaquine can provoke severe hemolysis in people with G6PD deficiency, a hereditary enzyme defect that makes red blood cells fragile under oxidative stress, a screening test is a non‑negotiable step before prescribing.
First, understand that primaquine is not a stand‑alone cure for acute malaria; it works alongside a fast‑acting blood schizonticide like chloroquine or artemisinin‑based combo therapy. This two‑pronged approach eliminates the circulating parasites and then sweeps the liver clean. Second, dosing matters: the standard 14‑day regimen for radical cure differs from the single‑dose regimen used for terminal prophylaxis in travelers. Third, side‑effects beyond hemolysis can include nausea, abdominal cramps, and dark urine, but most patients tolerate the short course well when screened properly. If you’re a clinician, keep a checklist handy: confirm G6PD status, verify pregnancy status (primaquine is contraindicated in the first trimester), and ensure patient adherence to the full course.
The articles below dive deep into medication comparisons, side‑effect profiles, and practical tips that intersect with primaquine use. Whether you’re looking at how primaquine stacks up against other antimalarials, how to manage G6PD‑related risks, or the latest guidance on travel‑related malaria prophylaxis, you’ll find clear, evidence‑based information. Explore the collection to arm yourself with the facts you need before you prescribe, travel, or simply stay informed about this unique drug.
