Daraprim (pyrimethamine) is a medication used to prevent and treat malaria. It is also used to treat toxoplasmosis, a parasitic infection caused by the Toxoplasma gondii parasite. According to Drugs.com, Daraprim is an antiparasitic drug that stops the multiplication of parasites within your body. The initial starting dose of Daraprim is 50 to 75 mg daily, says the National Library of Medicine.
Common Side Effects
According to Drugs.com, Daraprim commonly causes trouble sleeping, a headache, nausea, vomiting and lightheadedness. It can cause dry mouth and a poor appetite. These side effects are not serious but tell your physician if these side effects remain for three to five days. Your doctor may change the dosage of Daraprim to prevent these side effects or he may treat your individual symptoms.
Serious Side Effects
According to the National Library of Medicine, Daraprim can cause potentially life threatening skin conditions called Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis, both conditions characterized with a skin rash and extensive peeling of your skin. In fact, Drugs.com says that you should stop taking Daraprim at the first onset of a skin rash, regardless of whether it is severe or not. Daraprim can also cause vomiting, anemia (low red blood cells), leukopenia (low white blood cells) and thrombocytopenia (low platelet count). Leukopenia can make you at higher risk for getting infections and thrombocytopenia can make you bleed and bruise easily. Daraprim can cause glossitis (a red tongue), hematuria (bloody urine) and heart rhythm irregularities, says the National Library of Medicine. Inform your doctor when you exhibit any of these side effects.
Additional Concerns
Avoid Daraprim if you are allergic to it. You may develop such potentially dangerous side effects as trouble breathing, hives and edema of your face, tongue or lips. This is considered a medical emergency so call 911.
You should inform your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Daraprim can pass into breast milk or potentially harm your baby.
Drugs.com says that you should avoid combining Daraprim with auranofin, aurothioglucose or gold sodium thiomalate. It can cause the aforementioned side effects.
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