Proguanil Hydrochloride

Proguanil Hydrochloride is an antimalarial medication used to prevent and treat malaria. It works by inhibiting the malaria parasite's ability to multiply in the blood. Proguanil is often used in combination with other antimalarial drugs such as atovaquone.

Indications

-Prevention of malaria in travelers to endemic areas -Treatment of acute, uncomplicated malaria caused by Plasmodium falciparum and other Plasmodium species

Dosage

-Prevention: The usual dose for adults is 200 mg daily, starting 1-2 days before entering a malaria-endemic area and continuing for 7 days after leaving the area. -Treatment: The dosage for treatment varies and is often combined with atovaquone. The standard combination dose is one tablet (250 mg atovaquone/100 mg proguanil) daily for 3 days. -Pediatric Dosage: Dosage for children is based on body weight and should be determined by a healthcare professional.

Contra-Indications

-Hypersensitivity to proguanil or any of its components -Severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance <30 mL/min)

Special Precautions

Renal impairment. Paediatrics: Dose should be reduced. Pregnancy: Use with caution. Lactation: Drug passes in to breast milk.

Side Effects

-Common: Nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, headache -Less common: Mouth ulcers, pruritus, alopecia -Rare: Severe hypersensitivity reactions, hematological effects (e.g., anemia, leukopenia)

Drug Interactions

-Potential interaction with anticoagulants, leading to an increased risk of bleeding -Concomitant use with other antimalarial drugs may increase the risk of side effects -Inform your healthcare provider about all medications and supplements you are taking