Primaquine
Primaquine is an antimalarial medication primarily used for the radical cure of Plasmodium vivax and P. ovale infections, eliminating the dormant liver forms (hypnozoites) to prevent malaria relapse. It is also employed as terminal prophylaxis after exposure to these malaria species and may be used for primary prophylaxis in certain situations. This medication requires careful patient selection due to its potential to cause severe hemolytic reactions in individuals with G6PD deficiency.
Primaquine is an antimalarial drug used to prevent malaria relapse by eliminating dormant liver-stage parasites of P. vivax and P. ovale.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- P01BA03
- RxNorm
- 8687
- Generic
- Primaquine
- Class
- atc-p01
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- tablet
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Radical cure and prevention of relapse in P. vivax and P. ovale malaria; terminal prophylaxis after exposure to these species; primary prophylaxis against malaria in certain regions or situations.
Accumulates within parasite mitochondria where it disrupts the electron transport chain and generates reactive oxygen species, leading to parasiticidal effects against liver-stage hypnozoites and gametocytes.
Screening for G6PD deficiency is essential before use due to risk of severe hemolytic anemia; contraindicated in pregnancy; may cause methemoglobinemia; must be taken with food to improve tolerability and absorption.
Official drug label
WellAlly may earn a referral fee from linked resources at no extra cost to you. Editorial content is never influenced by commercial relationships.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy