Proguanil

Expert Advice

Dosage Forms Available

• Proguanil is available for oral use in the form of tablets.

• It is also found in fixed-dose combination tablets with atovaquone.

Age and Dose Restrictions

• This medication is suitable for use by adults and children.

Contraindications

• This medicine is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to Proguanil or any component of the formulation.

• It is also contraindicated in patients with severe renal impairment.

Other Medications to Avoid

• Proguanil may interact with anticoagulants (such as warfarin), antiepileptics (including phenytoin and carbamazepine), and medications that reduce gastric acidity (such as antacids and bismuth subsalicylate).

• Consult the doctor before using Proguanil with any other medicines.

Overdose and Missed Dose

• An overdose of Proguanil may cause vomiting, diarrhoea, and reversible hair loss. Treatment is primarily supportive. In case of overdose, immediately contact a poison control centre or emergency department.

• If you miss a dose of Proguanil, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is nearly time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Management of Side Effects

Most side effects are temporary and generally harmless and resolve when discontinuing this medicine. However, if you experience any severe side effects or worsening of any of the symptoms, please consult your doctor.

• To manage nausea, taking Proguanil with food or milk may help.

• For headaches or dizziness, ensure adequate hydration by drinking plenty of water.

Use in Driving and Operating Machinery

• Proguanil may cause dizziness. It is advisable to avoid driving or operating heavy machinery if you experience such symptoms after taking this medicine.

Use in Pregnancy and Lactation

• The safety of Proguanil in pregnancy and lactation has not been fully established. Use only if the potential benefits justify the potential risk to the fetus or infant.

• Consult your doctor before using this medicine during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.

Caution in Other Conditions

• Patients with renal impairment should exercise caution when taking Proguanil. Dose adjustment may be necessary based on the severity of renal function impairment.

• It is also advisable for patients with liver conditions to consult their doctor before using this medicine, as liver function may influence how the medication is processed in the body.

Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations

While taking Proguanil for malaria prevention or management:

• Use personal protective measures such as insect repellents, and mosquito nets, and wear long-sleeved shirts and trousers during dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active.

• Ensure that you are taking other preventive measures such as staying in screened-in areas to reduce mosquito bites.

• Maintain hydration, especially in hot climates to help manage any potential side effects like dizziness or headaches.

• Follow a balanced diet to support overall health, especially if travelling to areas where malaria is prevalent.

Frequently asked questions

Terms & Conditions