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PyrimethaminePrecautionsBefore taking pyrimethamine, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details. Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: seizures, kidney problems, liver problems, a certain type of low red blood cell count (megaloblastic anemia due to low blood folate), low folic acid levels from other conditions (such as malnutrition, problems with absorption of food, alcoholism), low red/white blood cell counts, low blood-clotting cell (platelet) count. Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products). During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. Folic acid is very important during pregnancy. Your doctor will prescribe folic/folinic acid to prevent low folate levels. This medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding. Side EffectsSee also How to Use section. Nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Remember that this medication has been prescribed because your doctor 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. Some people using this medication may develop serious side effects including blood problems, especially at higher doses. This risk can be reduced with the use of folic/folinic acid and regular blood tests. Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: easy bruising/bleeding, signs of serious infection (such as sore throat that doesn't go away, high fever, severe chills), signs of low red blood cell count (such as severe tiredness, pale lips/nails/skin, fast heartbeat/breathing with usual activities), swollen/painful tongue. Get medical help right away if you have any very serious side effects, including: bloody/pink urine, chest pain, slow/fast/irregular heartbeat. A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing. This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist. In the US - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch. In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345. |