Darap

Darap is a brand name used for pyrimethamine, an antiparasitic medication classified as a dihydrofolate reductase inhibitor. Pyrimethamine interferes with parasite folate synthesis by inhibiting dihydrofolate reductase, hampering DNA synthesis and cell growth. The drug is used primarily to treat toxoplasmosis and, in combination with other agents, for malaria prophylaxis or treatment in certain settings.

The primary use of pyrimethamine is in the treatment of toxoplasmosis, typically in combination with sulfadiazine and leucovorin (folinic acid) to reduce bone marrow toxicity. For malaria, pyrimethamine has been used historically in combination regimens or prophylaxis, depending on local resistance patterns and guidelines. Dosing is individualized and determined by a clinician, and treatment often requires monitoring of blood counts and folate status.

Darap is administered by mouth as tablets and is usually used as part of combination therapy rather than as a sole agent. Because of its potential to cause harm to a developing fetus, pyrimethamine is generally avoided in pregnancy unless a clearly stated medical indication exists, and folinic acid rescue may be used to reduce toxicity in active treatment regimens.

Common adverse effects include bone marrow suppression (which can lead to anemia, leukopenia, and thrombocytopenia), nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, rash, and hypersensitivity reactions. It can interact with folic acid supplements and other antifolate drugs such as trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, and with medications that affect bone marrow function. Patients are usually advised to have baseline blood counts and periodic monitoring during therapy.