Pyrimethamine
Pyrimethamine
Pyrimethamine (pronounced: pye-ri-METH-a-meen) is a medication primarily used with leucovorin to treat toxoplasmosis. This combination is also used, along with sulfadiazine, for the treatment of Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia. Pyrimethamine is also used in the treatment of malaria.
Etymology
The term "Pyrimethamine" is derived from the chemical structure of the drug, which is a pyrimidine derivative. The "-methamine" suffix indicates the presence of an amine group in the molecule.
Usage
Pyrimethamine is taken by mouth. It is typically used with a sulfonamide and folinic acid in areas where resistance is common.
Side Effects
Common side effects include gastrointestinal upset such as nausea and diarrhea. Severe side effects include allergic reactions, liver problems, and low white blood cell levels. It is not recommended in people with the genetic disorder short-chain acyl-CoA dehydrogenase deficiency because it can cause hemolysis.
Mechanism of Action
Pyrimethamine interferes with folic acid metabolism by inhibiting the enzyme dihydrofolate reductase. This prevents the formation of DNA and RNA, which are required for the growth and reproduction of the parasite.
History
Pyrimethamine was first made in 1952. It is on the World Health Organization's List of Essential Medicines, the safest and most effective medicines needed in a health system.
Related Terms
- Antimalarial medication
- Antiparasitic medication
- Dihydrofolate reductase inhibitor
- Sulfonamide (medicine)
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Pyrimethamine
- Wikipedia's article - Pyrimethamine
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