HALOFANTRINE

Halofantrine is a drug that belongs to a class of drugs known as 9-phenanthrenemethanols. It is active against various forms of malaria such as Plasmodium falciparum and vivax which are often chloroquine-resistant. It also inhibits the proton pump of the cell and can destroy blood forms of the malarial parasites. It is usually in the form of an oral tablet.

Halofantrine is used to treat malaria.

Halofantrine should not be used in people with the following conditions:

  • Existing or family history of prolonged QT-interval in ECG
  • Heart disease
  • Unexplained fainting or syncopal attacks
  • Vitamin B or thiamine deficiency
  • Electrolyte disturbances
  • Taking arrhythmogenic drugs for the heart
  • Previous or concurrent treatment with mefloquine
  • Hypersensitivity
  • Pregnancy
  • Breastfeeding

Halofantrine can give rise to the following side effects:

  • Diarrhoea
  • Abdominal pain
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Skin itching
  • Skin rash
  • Hypersensitivity reactions
  • Intravascular haemolysis
  • Serious ventricular arrhythmias

Precautions

Take precautions when you have the following conditions:

  • Chronic liver disease
  • Heart problems

 

Interactions

Halofantrine may interact with the following medicines:

  • Drugs that cause electrolyte disturbances such as diuretics
  • Mefloquine
  • Drugs that induce arrhythmia such as chloroquine, quinine, TCAs
  • Some antiarrhythmics (amiodarone, dysopyramide, flecainide, procainamide, quinidine and sotalol)
  • Cisapride
  • Astemizole
  • Terfenadine

Overdose symptoms include gastrointestinal problems and heart palpitations. If you think you may have taken Halofantrine more than the recommended dose, seek medical help immediately.

 

Available Brand/s:

Halfan

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