Fansidar Oral

In Depth

Uses and How to Use
Dosage and Storage
Precautions and Side Effects
Drug Interactions

Generic Name: SULFADOXINE/PYRIMETHAMINE - ORAL
Pronounced: (sull-fuh-DOX-een/pir-ih-METH-uh-meen)

Fansidar Oral Warning

Sulfadoxine/pyrimethamine has caused sometimes severe, fatal allergic reactions. These severe reactions (e.g., Stevens-Johnson syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis) usually start with a skin rash. You should stop taking sulfadoxine/pyrimethamine at the first sign of a rash and seek immediate medical attention.

Sulfadoxine/pyrimethamine has also caused severe decreases in white blood cells. This can result in severe, sometimes fatal infections. If you experience symptoms of a severe infection (e.g., high fever, severe chills, muscle aches, persistent sore throat), stop this medication and seek immediate medical attention.

Fansidar Oral Side Effects

See also Warning section.

Nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite may occur. This product may make you more sensitive to the sun and sunburn (see also Precautions section). Less common side effects may include headache, lightheadedness, trouble sleeping, tiredness, or irritability. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur:

mouth sores
diarrhea
increased sensitivity to touch
tingling/numbness/pain
mental/mood changes (e.g., depression, hallucinations, nervousness)
ringing in the ears
muscle weakness
severe dizziness

Tell your doctor immediately if any of these rare but very serious side effects occur:

easy bruising/bleeding
signs of low red blood cells (e.g., severe tiredness, pale lips/nails/skin, fast heartbeat, rapid breathing at rest)
flattening of taste buds of the tongue
lower abdominal/back pain
bloody/pink urine
decreased urination
dry cough
wheezing
chest pain
irregular heartbeat
signs of severe liver problems (e.g., severe tiredness, persistent nausea/vomiting, yellowing skin/eyes, abdominal pain, dark urine)

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, seek immediate medical attention if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: