🍽️ halofantrine hydrochloride,(prescription)

Antimalarial Activity: Halofantrine is effective against Plasmodium falciparum malaria, including strains that are resistant to other antimalarial drugs like chloroquine and sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine.

Treatment of Malaria: Halofantrine is typically used for the treatment of uncomplicated malaria in areas where the parasite is known or likely to be resistant to other antimalarial drugs. It is not recommended for the prevention of malaria.

Mode of Action: Halofantrine acts by interfering with the function of heme polymerase in the parasite, leading to the accumulation of toxic heme metabolites within the malaria parasite and subsequent death.

Rapid Onset of Action: Halofantrine has a relatively rapid onset of action, with clinical improvement typically seen within 24 to 48 hours after initiation of treatment.

High Cure Rate: When used as directed, halofantrine has been shown to have a high cure rate for uncomplicated falciparum malaria. However, its effectiveness may be limited by the emergence of drug-resistant strains of the malaria parasite.

Adverse Effects: Common adverse effects associated with halofantrine include gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. These symptoms are usually mild to moderate in severity and transient.

Cardiac Effects: Halofantrine has been associated with potentially serious cardiac adverse effects, including prolongation of the QT interval on electrocardiogram (ECG), which can predispose patients to a rare but potentially fatal arrhythmia known as torsades de pointes. Due to this risk, halofantrine is contraindicated in individuals with a history of cardiac arrhythmias or prolonged QT interval, as well as those taking other medications that may prolong the QT interval or inhibit halofantrine metabolism.

Monitoring: Patients receiving halofantrine therapy should undergo regular monitoring of cardiac function, including baseline and periodic ECG assessments. Treatment should be discontinued if significant cardiac abnormalities or arrhythmias develop.

Hepatic Effects: Rare cases of hepatotoxicity, including hepatitis and elevated liver enzymes, have been reported with halofantrine use. Patients should be monitored for signs and symptoms of liver dysfunction during treatment.

Drug Interactions: Halofantrine may interact with other medications, particularly those that prolong the QT interval or inhibit its metabolism. Concomitant use of halofantrine with such medications should be avoided or carefully monitored.

Pregnancy and Lactation: The safety of halofantrine use during pregnancy and lactation has not been established. It should be used with caution in pregnant or breastfeeding women, weighing the potential benefits against the risks to the mother and fetus or infant.

Resistance: As with other antimalarial drugs, the emergence of drug-resistant strains of Plasmodium falciparum may limit the effectiveness of halofantrine over time. Therefore, it is important to monitor for resistance patterns and adjust treatment strategies accordingly.