Prescription Required
Description
Daraprim is an oral tablet made up of antiparasitics called pyrimethamine. This tablet is usually white in color and is available in 25mg.
Daraprim is prescribed to prevent parasites (most commonly the toxoplasma parasite; toxoplasmosis) in people with HIV infection (human immunodeficiency virus). It can also be used to treat people who already have toxoplasmosis in the body, brain or eyes. People can get this parasite from eating undercooked contaminated meat, mother-to-child transmission during pregnancy, or exposure from infected cat feces. This medication is used in combination with other medications to be effective.
This medication works by blocking the use of folic acid which is necessary for the production of proteins created by the parasites in order to survive and multiply. When the use of folic acid is blocked off, the parasites will end up dying.
Directions
Ensure you are following the directions from your health care provider. You could increase your chance of side effects, parasites and resistance of the condition if you change your dose without consulting your doctor first.
Your dosage and duration of treatment is all dependant on the reason you are taking this medication, the state of the condition, as well as your age and response to treatment. The dose for toxoplasmosis is much higher than for treatment for malaria (another condition Daraprim is used for).
Take this medication orally once or twice a day. To decrease nausea and vomiting, take this tablet with food. This medication works best when the drug level in your body is constant and consistent. Take this medication regularly to get the most benefit. Take the tablet at the same time everyday to ensure you do not miss a dose.
Cautions
You should not use Daraprim if you are allergic to it or if you have megaloblastic anemia (blood cell disorder) caused by folate deficiency. Make sure to tell your doctor about all drug allergies that you may have.
Using this medication during pregnancy could harm the baby. Speak to your doctor about appropriate birth control methods.
Daraprim passes into breast milk and could cause unwanted side effects in the nursing baby.
You may need a dose adjustment, extra medication, or to use extra pre caution while on Daraprim if the following apply to you; make sure too tell your doctor if you have or have had:
seizures (especially if you take phenytoin); liver disease; kidney disease; alcoholism; or if you are malnourished.
Side Effects
Please note this is not a complete list of side effects. Not everyone experiences side effects; they are not guaranteed. If you do have side effects and they become unmanageable, consult your doctor about alternate medications.
Common side effects of Daraprim (pyrimethamine) may include:
vomiting; or loss of appetite.
The above side effects should not alarm you.
Serious side effects of Daraprim (pyrimethamine) may include:
sore throat, swelling in your tongue; pale skin, easy bruising, purple spots under your skin; the first sign of any skin rash, no matter how mild; blood in your urine; fever, cold or flu symptoms; new or worsening cough, fever, trouble breathing; irregular heartbeats;
If you have any of the above side effects, contact your doctor right away.
Signs to watch for:
folate deficiency: unusual tiredness, mood changes, feeling sick, mouth sores, stomach discomfort, loss of appetite.
severe skin reaction: fever, sore throat, swelling in your face or tongue, burning in your eyes, skin pain, followed by a red or purple skin rash that spreads (especially in the face or upper body) and causes blistering and peeling.
FAQs
What are some medication interactions with Daraprim?
Some drug interactions with Daraprim include methotrexate; phenytoin; or a sulfa drug.
How should I store this medication?
Store in room temperature (between 15 C and 25 C ) away from moisture, heat and light. Keep away from children and pets.
Is it safe for kids?
Yes, it is safe for use in children. Children may be more likely to experience side effects and may need a smaller dosage.
How much does Daraprim usually cost?
In 2015, the price went from $13.50/tablet raised over 5000% to $750/tablet in the United States. At MyDrugCenter, we have Daraprim for (on average) $6/tablet, which is 50% cheaper than the orignal price!
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