Antimalarial
Last reviewed June 2026
Who is this for?
This is a combination antimalarial drug containing three active ingredients — Sulphadoxine, Pyrimethamine, and Amodiaquine — that work together to kill the malaria parasite in your blood in different ways, making the treatment more effective.
Inhibits plasmodial dihydrofolate reductase and dihydropteroate synthase enzymes (sulphadoxine and pyrimethamine), disrupting the folate synthesis pathway essential for parasitic DNA replication; amodiaquine intercalates into plasmodial DNA and inhibits heme polymerization, causing parasite death through multiple mechanisms.
Prescription Required
You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.
Explore this drug
For adults, the treatment is usually taken over 3 days. On Day 1, you take the Sulphadoxine/Pyrimethamine tablets (usually 3 tablets as a single dose) along with Amodiaquine tablets. On Days 2 and 3, you continue only the Amodiaquine. Take with food or after eating to reduce stomach upset. Follow the exact instructions on your pack or as directed by your pharmacist or doctor.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed one and continue with your schedule. Do not take a double dose. Since this is a short 3-day course, try your best not to miss any dose so the treatment works properly.
Always complete the full 3-day course even if you start feeling better after Day 1 — stopping early can make the malaria come back stronger. Buy only from licensed pharmacies and look for trusted brands like SKG, not from roadside sellers where fake drugs are common. If your symptoms do not improve after finishing the course, go to a hospital for a proper malaria test.
Avoid taking with other antimalarials like Chloroquine at the same time unless your doctor tells you to. Do not use with Methotrexate or Cotrimoxazole (Septrin) as they can increase the risk of serious blood-related side effects. Avoid alcohol during treatment as it can worsen stomach upset and dizziness.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Sulphadoxine; with your other drugs?
This combination is generally not recommended during pregnancy, especially in the first trimester, and should be used during breastfeeding only if your doctor says it is necessary — always consult your doctor first.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat — Nigerian weather can be very hot, so avoid leaving it in your car or near a window. Keep the tablets in their original packaging and far away from children.
For information only — not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.
Names this drug is sold under — especially in Nigerian and West African pharmacies
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Counterfeit Drug Warning
Fake drugs are a serious problem in Nigeria. Always buy from a registered pharmacy. If the packaging looks different from what is described above, do not use it.