I read somewhere that this medicine isnt given to pregnant women and now im curious why exactly. Im 3 months pregnant and just want to understand the reason behind it. anyone knows?
When i asked about malaria meds in pregnancy, the doctor explained primaquine can trigger haemolysis (breaking of red blood cells) in babies who may have G6PD deficiency, which cant be ruled out in the womb. So it is avoided and a safer drug is used instead. The point is the specialist decides, based on your case.
The exact medical reason aside, the simple takeaway is it is not safe for the baby so doctors avoid it in pregnancy. Any medicine, especially for something like malaria, must come from your doctor who picks a pregnancy-safe one. Never self prescribe in these 9 months.
From what i know it can be risky because it may cause problems for the baby, especially related to red blood cell breakdown if the baby has a certain enzyme deficiency. Thats why doctors avoid it in pregnancy and choose safer malaria options. Definitely a doctor-only call, never take it on your own.
Please dont take primaquine or any malaria medicine yourself during pregnancy. It is contraindicated because of possible harm to the baby's blood cells. If malaria is suspected, the doctor has safe alternatives, so go to them straight away.
