Composition
Each tablet of Evamal contains: Sulphadoxine 500mg Pyrimethamine 25mg

Description

Evamal is an antimalarial. It is a synergetic combination of two anti-malarial agents. It is indicated for the treatment of malaria infection and for prophylaxis in Intermittent Preventive Therapy (IPT) in pregnancy.

Pharmacology

Evamal is an antimalarial agent, which acts by reciprocal potentiation of its two components, achieved by a sequential blockade of two enzymes involved in the biosynthesis of folinic acid in the parasites. One of the major advantages of Evamal is that it attacks the different stages of the life cycle of the malaria parasite. Effective concentrations are rapidly attained with a single dose. Trophozoites and schizonts are eliminated from the blood; the pre-erythrocytic stages are also affected while the secondary exo-erthrocytic forms are unaffected which may cause recurrence of infection with Plasmodium vivax. In such cases, therefore, consideration should be given to following up treatment with Primaquin to prevent recurrence. Evamal is compatible with other antimalarial drugs, particularly artesunate, amodiaquine, quinine and some antibiotics. It has no hypoglycaemic effect and does not influence the action of antidiabetic agents.

Indications

Treatment of Malaria infection: In combination with Artesunate and Amodiaquine Prophylaxis against malaria infection in Intermittent Preventive Therapy in pregnancy

Dosage and Administration

In combination with Amodiaquine or Artesunate Children: 2 months – 2 years: ½ tablet as a single dose 2 – 6 years: One tablet as a single dose Teenagers: 6 – 12 years: Two tablets as a single dose Adult: 3 tablets as a single dose.

In Intermittent Preventive Therapy Three doses of 3 tablets of Evamal at no less than 4 weeks intervals after the first trimester.

Contraindications

It is contra-indicated in those that are hypersensitive to sulphonamides or to any component of the drug. In pregnancy, it is contra-indicated under the following conditions:

• In the first trimester

• In the last four weeks of the third trimester

Concomitant use of Cotrimoxazole and any sulpha-containing drugs

Warning and Precautions

Should cutaneous erythema appear, treatment should be stopped immediately. An adequate diuresis must be maintained and in case of renal disorder, administer low or less frequent doses to avoid drug accumulation. Special precautions should be taken in treating patients with conditions predisposing to deficiency of folic acid.

Side Effects

Evamal is generally well tolerated at the recommended doses. Side effects could include nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea. Cutaneous eruption may occur and rarely there could be blood dyscracia.

Presentation

Evamal tablet is available in packs of 3’s