Why is this medication prescribed?

Arakoda is prescribed primarily for the prevention of malaria. It is used to help prevent malaria infection in people traveling to or living in areas where malaria is common. Tafenoquine is particularly effective for pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) in regions with a high risk of malaria.

It works by inhibiting the malaria parasites in the liver, thereby preventing them from causing an infection in the bloodstream. Tafenoquine is a long-acting antimalarial medication that is typically used in combination with other antimalarial drugs for comprehensive malaria prevention and treatment.

How should this medicine be used?

Arakoda (generic name: tafenoquine) is used for the prevention of malaria in adults and children aged 16 years and older. Here’s how it should be used:

• Dosage: The typical dose for Arakoda is one 300 mg tablet taken once a week. The exact dosage might vary based on the specific needs of the patient or their healthcare provider’s instructions.
• Administration: It should be taken with food to improve absorption.
• Timing: Begin taking Arakoda at least 1 week before traveling to an area with malaria. Continue taking it weekly while in the malaria-endemic area and for 4 weeks after leaving the area.
• Missed Dose: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it’s almost time for your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double up on doses.
• Storage: Store the medication at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.
• Special Precautions: Ensure that your healthcare provider is aware of any pre-existing conditions, especially if you have a history of psychiatric disorders or G6PD deficiency, as tafenoquine may not be suitable for these conditions.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and consult them if you have any concerns or experience side effects.

Other uses for this medicine

Arakoda is primarily used for the prevention of malaria. Currently, its use is focused on this purpose, and it is not generally prescribed for other conditions.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special Precautions for Arakoda:

• G6PD Deficiency: Tafenoquine can cause hemolysis in individuals with glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency. Ensure that a G6PD test is conducted before starting treatment, especially if you have a known history of this condition.
• Mental Health: Tafenoquine has been associated with psychiatric effects such as mood changes and hallucinations. Inform your healthcare provider if you have a history of mental health issues.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: The safety of tafenoquine during pregnancy and breastfeeding is not well established. Discuss potential risks with your healthcare provider if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, or if you are breastfeeding.
• Liver Function: Monitor liver function tests periodically, as tafenoquine may affect liver function.
• Drug Interactions: Inform your healthcare provider about all other medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements, to avoid potential interactions.
• Adherence: Adherence to the dosing schedule is crucial. Missing doses or not completing the full course can reduce the effectiveness of malaria prevention.
• Allergic Reactions: Be aware of signs of severe allergic reactions (e.g., rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing) and seek immediate medical attention if these occur.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s advice and consult them with any questions or concerns regarding Arakoda.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Take Arakoda with food to enhance absorption. There are no other specific dietary restrictions associated with Arakoda.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Arakoda (tafenoquine) can cause a range of side effects. Some common and serious side effects include:

Common Side Effects:

• Nausea
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Fatigue
• Abdominal pain
• Diarrhea

Serious Side Effects:

• Hemolysis: Especially in individuals with glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency, which can lead to anemia and other related symptoms.
• Psychiatric Effects: Mood changes, hallucinations, and other mental health issues.
• Liver Issues: Elevated liver enzymes, which could indicate liver damage.
• Severe Allergic Reactions: Symptoms might include rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or trouble breathing.

If you experience any severe side effects or signs of an allergic reaction, seek medical attention immediately. Always report any unusual or bothersome side effects to your healthcare provider.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal of Arakoda:

• Storage:
  • Store Arakoda at room temperature, typically between 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C).
  • Keep the medication in its original container, tightly closed, and away from moisture and heat.
• Disposal:
  • Dispose of Arakoda properly. If you have unused or expired medication, follow local guidelines or take it to a pharmacy or disposal site that accepts medications.
  • Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless specifically instructed to do so.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Contact: If you suspect an overdose or experience severe symptoms, seek immediate medical attention or contact your local poison control center.
• Symptoms of Overdose: May include severe nausea, vomiting, dizziness, or other adverse effects.

What other information should I know?

• Adherence: Follow the dosing schedule carefully to ensure effectiveness in preventing malaria.
• Regular Monitoring: Regularly check for any side effects or changes in health, and keep up with scheduled appointments for monitoring.
• Health History: Inform your healthcare provider about any existing health conditions or medications you are taking to avoid interactions or complications.
• Travel: Make sure to follow the prescribed regimen when traveling to malaria-endemic areas and complete the full course of medication as directed.

Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice and any concerns you may have about using Arakoda.