Fansidar Combi Tablets - Intermittent Preventive Treatment (IPTp) for Malaria

Fansidar Combi is a specialized antimalarial medication containing a fixed-dose combination of Sulfadoxine (500mg) and Pyrimethamine (25mg). In Nigeria, it is primarily used for the prevention of malaria in specific at-risk groups, most notably during pregnancy.

Primary Use in Nigeria: Pregnancy Support (IPTp)

Following NAFDAC and WHO guidelines, Fansidar Combi is the standard of care for Intermittent Preventive Treatment in pregnancy (IPTp). It is administered under medical supervision during the second and third trimesters to protect both the mother and the unborn baby from the complications of malaria.

How Fansidar Combi Works

Fansidar is an "antifolate" combination. Its two active ingredients work together to block the enzymes the malaria parasite (Plasmodium falciparum) needs to grow:

• Sulfadoxine: A long-acting sulfonamide antibiotic that inhibits parasite growth.
• Pyrimethamine: Works synergistically to prevent the parasite from multiplying in the bloodstream.

Key Benefits

• Pregnancy Protection: Helps prevent maternal anemia, low birth weight, and other malaria-related pregnancy complications.
• Trusted Formulation: A long-standing, reliable treatment for specific preventive malaria programs in Nigeria.
• Convenient Single-Dose Regimen: Typically administered as a single dose of three tablets when used for treatment or preventive cycles.

Dosage and Administration

• Standard Adult Dose: Usually 3 tablets taken as a single dose with plenty of water.
• During Pregnancy: Must be administered by a healthcare professional at scheduled antenatal visits starting from the 13th week of pregnancy.

Safety Information

• Sulfa Allergy: Do not use if you are allergic to sulfonamides.
• Stevens-Johnson Syndrome: Though rare, seek immediate medical help if you develop a severe skin rash or blisters.
• Storage: Store in a cool, dry place below 30°C. Keep out of reach of children.

Note: Fansidar Combi is a Prescription Only Medicine (POM). Always follow the instructions of your doctor or the GoMed pharmacist.