Proguanil: Chemical formula, Mechanism of action, Uses & Side effects

Chemical formula:

• C11H16ClN5

Structure of Proguanil

Mechanism of action:

• Proguanil is a prodrug that is converted to its active metabolite, cycloguanil, which inhibits DHFR and disrupts nucleic acid synthesis in the Plasmodium parasite.

Uses:

• Proguanil is used for malaria prophylaxis, often in combination with atovaquone (Malarone®), in areas with drug-resistant P. falciparum.

Side effects:

• Nausea

• Vomiting

• Diarrhea

• abdominal pain

• headache

• dizziness

• and rash

• Rare but serious side effects include neutropenia, hepatotoxicity, and severe skin reactions.