Halofantrine is used to treat malaria.
Take Halofantrine exactly as directed by your doctor. Do not take more or less than instructed by your doctor.
Take Halofantrine at regular intervals as instructed. Continue to take it even when you feel better. Do not skip any doses. You must complete the entire course unless otherwise directed.
Take Halofantrine on an empty stomach at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal. It is important that you take it on an empty stomach as this will help minimise the side effects of Halofantrine. Try to take it at the same time each day.
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.
DO NOT double a dose under any circumstances.
If you often forget to take your medicine, let your doctor and pharmacist know.
Alert your doctor if you have heart problems, a family history of heart problems, sudden fainting episodes, vitamin B1 deficiency or any other medical conditions.
Alert your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Do not breastfeed while being treated with Halofantrine.
In addition to taking Halofantrine, you must also take preventive measures to avoid mosquito bites. This will help prevent you from being re-infected with malaria. Use an effective insect repellent, wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants to reduce exposure. Avoid going out between dusk to dawn. Effective insect repellents should contain at least 20-33% diethyltoluamide (DEET).
The symptoms of malaria are fever, chills, headache, muscle pain and a flu-like illness. Consult a doctor immediately if you experience these symptoms again, and anytime within 1 year after leaving the area, especially within 3 months of your return from an area known to have malaria.
Halofantrine may cause headache, diarrhoea, stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, rashes or itchy skin.
Alert your doctor immediately if you experience fast or irregular heartbeat.
Alert your doctor quickly if you are taking any other medicines, especially those listed here:
- heart medicines, especially those used to control irregular heartbeat, such as amiodarone, disopyramide, flecainide, procainamide, quinidine and sotalol
- other antimalarial medicines such as chloroquine, mefloquine, quinine
- cisapride, astemizole, terfenadine
- diuretics (medications used to reduce excess water in body)
- antidepressants and mood medicines
Always inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics, supplements and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
Avoid food with high fat content for 24 hours after taking Halofantrine, as this may increase the absorption of Halofantrine and result in increased risk of side effects.
Avoid alcohol and grapefruit juice.
Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.
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