Malodoxin

Malodoxin Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Malodoxin is a brand name. Its generic name is Sulphadoxine + Pyrimethamine.

Introduction

Sulphadoxine and Pyrimethamine (SP) is a combination of two drugs, Sulphadoxine and Pyrimethamine, which are used to treat malaria. It is an effective antimalarial that can prevent malaria from developing and also used to treat severe cases of malaria. SP is the recommended first-line treatment for Plasmodium falciparum and other protozoal infections.

Uses and Mechanism of Action

The Sulphadoxine and Pyrimethamine combination is used to treat Plasmodium falciparum malaria, including multiple complaints and infections. This drug is used primarily for its antiamoebic and anti-protozoal activities: Sulphadoxine binds to folic acid, an essential molecule used by the malarial parasite to create new cells, and Pyrimethamine works by blocking enzyme systems in the malarial organism. The combination of these two drugs synergistically inhibits DNA synthesis and cell replication of the malaria parasite.

How Long Does It Take To Work?

SP can start to act in as early as 24 hours, although its activity depends on specific dosage and the intensity of the infection. High doses of the drug are sometimes used for severe cases of malaria. The effectiveness of SP is also associated with parasite genotypic resistance.

Absorption and Route of Elimination

Sulphadoxine and Pyrimethamine absorption is increased when taken with food, especially fatty foods. The route of elimination of this drug is through the biliary and renal pathways. It is metabolized in the liver and excreted in the feces and urine.

Dosage, Administration, and Side Effect

For the treatment of malaria the recommended dose of SP is 3 Tablets (total dose: 75 mg sulpha-doxine plus 25 mg pyrimethamine) for adults. For children, the dose is based on the body weight and age as below: Under 2 months: 30mg/kg 2 months to 12 years: 2.5mg/kg 12 years or above: 75 mg sulpha-doxine and 25 mg of pyrimethamine The drug should be administered orally after food for better absorption. This drug is contraindicated in pregnant women due to the risk of birth defects. Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, headache, abdominal pain, and skin rash.

Toxicity, Precaution, Interactions, Disease Interactions, and Drug Interactions

The drug must be used with caution in patients with kidney or liver damage, as drug toxicity may be increased. SP is known to interact with several drugs such as antibiotics, antifungal agents, diuretics, and other antimalarial agents. In patients receiving SP, drug toxicity may be reduced by avoiding concurrent use of these drugs. SP should not be used in patients with renal dysfunction and should be avoided in pregnant women. The drug also interacts with certain diseases such as tuberculosis and HIV. Concurrent use of such diseases can reduce the effectiveness of SP.

Food Interactions, Pregnancy Use, Lactation Use, Acute Overdose, and Contraindication

SP is not known to interact with food. It should not be used in pregnant women due to the risk of birth defects. It should also be avoided in nursing women as this drug is excreted in breast milk and can cause harm to the baby. Acute overdose of SP may lead to hypotension, tachycardia, arrhythmia, and nausea. SP is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to sulpha-doxine or pyrimethamine or any of its components.

Use Direction, Storage condition, Volume of Distribution, Half Life, and Clearance

This drug should be taken as prescribed for optimal results. SP should be stored in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. The volume of distribution of Sulphadoxine and Pyrimethamine in the body is 0.29 L/kg. The half life of the drug is 17.7 hours. The clearance of SP is 11.7L/h.

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