Chemical formula:
C12H13ClN4
![Structure of Pyrimethamine](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/c7082f_f03d71935f3347ee851ed512f9063ee1~mv2.png/v1/fill/w_980,h_720,al_c,q_90,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/c7082f_f03d71935f3347ee851ed512f9063ee1~mv2.png)
Mechanism of action:
Pyrimethamine is a selective inhibitor of Plasmodium DHFR, blocking the synthesis of nucleic acids in the parasite.
Uses:
Pyrimethamine is used in combination with sulfadoxine (Fansidar®) to treat uncomplicated P. falciparum malaria in areas with chloroquine resistance.
It is also used in combination with other drugs for the treatment and prevention of toxoplasmosis.
Side effects:
Nausea, Vomiting, Diarrhea, abdominal pain, headache, dizziness and rash.
Rare but serious side effects include bone marrow suppression, hepatotoxicity, and severe skin reactions.