Swidar Tablet (Pyrimethamine) x3

Swidar Tablet is a dual-action antimalarial medication combining Sulfadoxine and Pyrimethamine in a fixed-dose formulation. This synergistic combination provides effective treatment against Plasmodium falciparum malaria, including some chloroquine-resistant strains forming a potent antimalarial medication that effectively treats and prevents certain types of malaria infections.

Uses

Swidar Tablet is primarily used for treatment and prevention of malaria caused by Plasmodium falciparum. It is often used in intermittent preventive treatment in pregnancy (IPTp) to prevent malaria in pregnant women. It may also be used as prophylaxis in travelers to endemic regions when other antimalarials are contraindicated.

Benefits

• Effective against chloroquine-resistant malaria strains
• Single-dose treatment in most cases
• Long-acting antimalarial protection
• Reduces malaria transmission
• Prevents maternal and fetal complications
• Cost-effective malaria treatment
• Well-established safety profile
• Suitable for intermittent preventive treatment

How It Works

Swidar Tablet works by inhibiting two consecutive steps in the folate synthesis pathway of the malaria parasite. Sulfadoxine blocks the enzyme dihydropteroate synthase, while Pyrimethamine inhibits dihydrofolate reductase. This dual blockade prevents the parasite from synthesizing nucleic acids and proteins essential for its survival and reproduction.

Duration of Action

Swidar Tablet provides extended antimalarial activity with Sulfadoxine having a half-life of 7-9 days and Pyrimethamine about 4 days. This long duration allows for single-dose treatment in most cases with protective effects lasting approximately 4-6 weeks.

Dosage

Warnings

Swidar Tablet may cause severe, sometimes fatal, skin reactions including Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis. Discontinue at first appearance of skin rash or any sign of adverse reaction. Not recommended for patients with severe renal or hepatic impairment or with folate deficiency conditions like megaloblastic anemia.

Side Effects

Common side effects include headache, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and skin rashes. Serious side effects may include severe allergic reactions, blood disorders, liver problems, and severe skin reactions. Prolonged use may lead to folate deficiency and associated complications.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Swidar Tablet is considered safe for use during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy as part of IPTp programs. Use during the first trimester and in breastfeeding mothers should be evaluated carefully with potential benefits weighed against possible risks.

Interactions

• Folate antagonists (increased risk of bone marrow suppression)
• Anticonvulsants (decreased anticonvulsant levels)
• Anticoagulants (increased anticoagulant effect)
• Antidiabetics (may affect blood glucose levels)
• Antacids (reduced absorption)
• Cyclosporine (increased risk of nephrotoxicity)
• PABA-containing sunscreens (reduced efficacy)

Precautions

Take Swidar Tablet exactly as prescribed with plenty of water. Maintain adequate fluid intake during treatment to prevent crystalluria. Complete blood counts and liver function tests may be required with prolonged use. Use additional malaria prevention measures including insect repellents and bed nets when in endemic areas.

Important Information

Swidar Tablet does not prevent relapses of P. vivax or P. ovale malaria. Resistance to Sulfadoxine/Pyrimethamine has been reported in certain geographic areas. This medication should be used as part of a comprehensive malaria control program in endemic regions. Store in a cool, dry place away from light and moisture and out of reach of children.