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.

Uses

Halofantrine is used to treat malaria.

Warnings

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

Side Effects

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

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 & Brands

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