What it is used for
- Treatment of malaria caused by sensitive parasite strains
- Preventive malaria treatment during pregnancy in some regions
- Seasonal malaria prevention programmes in children in some regions
How it works
Sulfadoxine and pyrimethamine block two steps the malaria parasite needs to make folate, a building block essential for the parasite to grow and multiply. Together they stop the parasite from reproducing.
How it is taken
Taken as oral tablets, usually as a single occasion or short course depending on the purpose. In pregnancy and child-prevention programmes it is given at scheduled visits under health-worker supervision. Take it exactly as your doctor, pharmacist, or health worker directs.
No doses here on purpose. The right strength and schedule depend on you — only a doctor or pharmacist should set them. Always follow your prescription and the label.
Common side effects
- Nausea
- Loss of appetite
- Stomach upset
- Headache
- Mild rash
Serious effects — get help
- Severe skin reactions such as widespread rash, blistering, or peeling (including the mouth and eyes) — stop and seek emergency care
- Signs of a severe allergic reaction such as facial swelling or breathing difficulty — seek emergency care
- Sore throat, fever, or unusual bruising/bleeding suggesting a blood-count problem — seek urgent care
- Yellowing of skin or eyes — seek urgent care
- Anemia in people with G6PD deficiency — urgent care
If a reaction is severe — for example trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or collapse — go to the nearest emergency room now or call your local emergency number. Do not wait for an online consultation.
Interactions to watch
- Other sulfa-containing medicines
- Methotrexate and other antifolate medicines
- Some medicines affecting the liver or bone marrow
- Certain antibiotics
Who should take care
- Do not use if you have a known sulfa-drug allergy
- Tell your clinician about G6PD deficiency, liver, or kidney problems
- Report any history of severe skin reactions to medicines
- In pregnancy it is used in structured programmes — follow your antenatal team's guidance
- Mention all other medicines, especially other antifolates