curekelafine 25mg/500mg tablet - Pyrimethamine (25mg) + Sulphadoxine (500mg) medicine

Curekelafine 25mg/500mg Tablet: Complete Medicine Guide

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🏭 Unicure India Pvt Ltd 📦 Varies by brand 💊 Allopathy 📅 Updated: Oct 22, 2026
⚠️ Hepatotoxicity Risk 🤰 Pregnancy Category Not classified by FDA letter categories. Use is contraindicated in the first trimester and should be avoided throughout pregnancy unless the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. It may cause birth defects, especially when used in early pregnancy. 📋 Prescription Required 💊 Generic Available
Medically Reviewed
11 min read
Evidence: Well-established for malaria treatment in areas where the parasite is susceptible; evidence for other uses is moderate to limited.
Reviewed by
SaathiMed Expert Panel | Oct 22, 2026
🩺
Medically Fact-Checked & Clinically Verified by SaathiMed Clinical Review Board
Clinical Reference Standards: CDSCO (Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation), Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP) & WHO | Last Updated: September 2026

When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY

  • Skin rash, blisters, or peeling skin
  • Mouth sores or ulcers
  • Fever with sore throat
  • Unusual bleeding or bruising
  • Yellowing of skin or eyes
  • Severe abdominal pain
  • Difficulty breathing or swelling of face, lips, or throat
  • Decreased urine output

If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.

What is curekelafine 25mg/500mg tablet used for?

This medicine is a combination of pyrimethamine and sulphadoxine used to treat malaria and certain other infections. It works by blocking the parasite's ability to make folic acid. It is taken orally, usually as a single dose for malaria. It can cause serious skin reactions and blood problems, so it must be used under medical supervision.

  • Generic Name: Pyrimethamine + Sulphadoxine
  • Manufacturer: Unicure India Pvt Ltd
  • Form: Allopathy
  • Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
  • Prescription Required: Yes

🇮🇳 curekelafine 25mg/500mg tablet के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

उपयोग: यह दवा पाइरीमेथामिन और सल्फाडॉक्सिन का संयोजन है, जिसका उपयोग मलेरिया और कुछ अन्य संक्रमणों के इलाज के लिए किया जाता है। यह मुख्य रूप से प्लास्मोडियम फाल्सीपेरम मलेरिया के इलाज में प्रयोग की जाती है, खासकर उन क्षेत्रों में जहां क्लोरोक्वीन के प्रति परजीवी प्रतिरोधी हो गया है। यह टोक्सोप्लाज्मोसिस और निमोनिया के कुछ रूपों में भी उपयोग की जा सकती है। यह दवा परजीवी के फोलिक एसिड संश्लेषण को रोककर काम करती है, जिससे परजीवी मर जाता है। यह दवा केवल डॉक्टर के पर्चे पर ही मिलती है और इसे निर्देशानुसार ही लेना चाहिए।

साइड इफेक्ट्स: आम दुष्प्रभावों में मतली, उल्टी, पेट दर्द, भूख न लगना, सिरदर्द और चक्कर आना शामिल हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभावों में त्वचा पर गंभीर प्रतिक्रियाएं जैसे स्टीवंस-जॉनसन सिंड्रोम, रक्त विकार जैसे एग्रानुलोसाइटोसिस, यकृत विषाक्तता और गंभीर एलर्जी प्रतिक्रियाएं शामिल हो सकती हैं। दुर्लभ दुष्प्रभावों में दौरे, मानसिक अवसाद और अग्नाशयशोथ शामिल हैं।

सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को पानी के साथ और भोजन के साथ लें ताकि पेट की परेशानी कम हो। निर्धारित खुराक से अधिक न लें। डॉक्टर के बताए अनुसार पूरा कोर्स करें। इस दवा के साथ शराब न लें। उपचार के दौरान और कम से कम 3 महीने बाद तक गर्भनिरोधक का उपयोग करें, क्योंकि यह दवा अजन्मे बच्चे को नुकसान पहुंचा सकती है। यदि आपको त्वचा पर दाने, मुंह में छाले, बुखार, या असामान्य रक्तस्राव या चोट लगने पर तुरंत डॉक्टर से मिलें।

💡 Did You Know? The first generic medicine was introduced in India in 1970 after the Patents Act was amended.

💊 curekelafine 25mg/500mg tablet Uses & Benefits

[{"condition":"Uncomplicated Plasmodium falciparum malaria","description":"Used as a first-line or second-line treatment in regions where the parasite is resistant to other antimalarials.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Toxoplasmosis","description":"Used in combination with other medicines for the treatment of toxoplasmosis, especially in immunocompromised patients.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia (PCP) prophylaxis","description":"Used as an alternative for prevention of PCP in patients who cannot tolerate standard therapy.","evidence":"Moderate"}]

Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Isosporiasis","description":"Sometimes used to treat diarrhea caused by Isospora belli in immunocompromised individuals.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Cyclosporiasis","description":"Occasionally used for treating Cyclospora infection, though not FDA-approved for this indication.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Primary treatment for: Malaria

Also treats: Toxoplasmosis, Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia

📋 Drug Information

Generic Name(s)Pyrimethamine + Sulphadoxine
Brand NameCurekelafine
ManufacturerUnicure India Pvt Ltd
Packaging / FormVaries by brand (Allopathy)
Therapeutic ClassANTI MALARIALS
Action ClassAntimalarial
Route of AdministrationOral
StorageStore at room temperature between 15°C and 30°C (59°F to 86°F). Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Shelf Life24 months from the date of manufacture.
WHO GuidelineThe World Health Organization recommends sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine in combination with amodiaquine as an option for intermittent preventive treatment of malaria in pregnancy (IPTp) in areas of moderate to high transmission. It is also recommended for seasonal malaria chemoprevention in some regions. However, due to resistance, its use as monotherapy for treatment is limited.
ICMR GuidelineThe Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) guidelines for malaria treatment recommend artemisinin-based combination therapy (ACT) as first-line treatment for uncomplicated P. falciparum malaria. Sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine is not recommended as first-line therapy in India due to widespread resistance, but may be used in specific situations as per national guidelines.

👨‍⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips

Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians

1
Always confirm the diagnosis of malaria with a blood test before starting this medicine.
2
Take this medicine with food to reduce stomach upset.
3
Complete the full prescribed course even if you feel better.
4
Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine to reduce the risk of liver problems.
5
Report any skin rash, mouth sores, or unusual bleeding immediately.
6
Use effective contraception during treatment and for at least 3 months after.
7
Inform your doctor if you have G6PD deficiency, kidney, or liver problems.

🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?

Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.

✅
Fever with chills
This medicine is commonly prescribed for malaria.
Likely Use
❌
Headache
This medicine is not a primary headache reliever.
Not Primary
❌
Skin rash
This medicine can cause skin rash as a side effect; consult doctor.
Not Primary

🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)

Pharmacokinetics

AbsorptionBoth pyrimethamine and sulphadoxine are well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract after oral administration. Peak plasma concentrations are generally reached within 2 to 6 hours for pyrimethamine and 2 to 8 hours for sulphadoxine.
DistributionPyrimethamine is widely distributed throughout the body, including into cerebrospinal fluid and tissues. Sulphadoxine also distributes widely, with significant protein binding. Both cross the placenta and are excreted in breast milk.
Protein BindingPyrimethamine is about 87% bound to plasma proteins. Sulphadoxine is approximately 85-90% bound to plasma proteins.
MetabolismPyrimethamine is partially metabolized in the liver, while sulphadoxine is metabolized to a lesser extent. The metabolites are generally inactive.
Half-LifeThe elimination half-life of pyrimethamine is approximately 80-100 hours, and that of sulphadoxine is about 100-200 hours. This long half-life allows for weekly dosing in some prophylactic regimens.
ExcretionBoth drugs and their metabolites are primarily excreted in the urine. Renal impairment can prolong their elimination.
BioavailabilityBioavailability is high for both components, though exact values are not well established from available information.
Onset of ActionThe onset of action for antimalarial effect is typically within 24-48 hours after oral administration, but clinical improvement may take longer.
Peak Plasma TimePeak plasma concentrations are reached in about 2-6 hours for pyrimethamine and 2-8 hours for sulphadoxine.
Duration of ActionThe antimalarial effect persists for several days due to the long half-lives of the components. For prophylaxis, a single dose provides protection for about one week.

How It Works

This medicine works by inhibiting two consecutive steps in the folic acid pathway of susceptible parasites. Pyrimethamine inhibits dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR), preventing the conversion of dihydrofolate to tetrahydrofolate. Sulphadoxine inhibits dihydropteroate synthase, blocking the formation of dihydropteroic acid. The combination produces a synergistic effect, effectively stopping the parasite's ability to synthesize nucleic acids and proteins, leading to its death.

Mechanism Steps

1
Inhibition of dihydropteroate synthase: Sulphadoxine competitively inhibits dihydropteroate synthase, preventing the synthesis of dihydropteroic acid, a precursor of folic acid.
2
Inhibition of dihydrofolate reductase: Pyrimethamine inhibits dihydrofolate reductase, blocking the reduction of dihydrofolate to tetrahydrofolate, which is essential for DNA synthesis.
3
Disruption of folate metabolism: The dual blockade leads to a shortage of tetrahydrofolate, impairing the parasite's ability to synthesize purines and pyrimidines, ultimately causing its death.

💡 How to Take curekelafine 25mg/500mg tablet

Strength: Each tablet contains pyrimethamine 25 mg and sulphadoxine 500 mg.

1Take this medicine orally with a full glass of water.
2Take it with food to reduce stomach upset.
3Swallow the tablet whole. Do not crush or chew.
4Follow the dosage schedule prescribed by your doctor.
5Complete the full course of treatment as prescribed.

Dosage Information

Adult DosageThe dosage of this medicine must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on the indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function, and the severity of the infection. For uncomplicated malaria, a common regimen is a single dose of 3 tablets (each containing 25 mg pyrimethamine and 500 mg sulphadoxine) taken orally. However, this may vary. For toxoplasmosis, the dose and duration are different and must be determined by a specialist. Do not self-medicate. Always follow your doctor's prescription.
Pediatric DosagePediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician for appropriate dosing.
Elderly DosageElderly patients may have reduced renal and hepatic function, which can affect drug elimination. Dose adjustment may be necessary. Use with caution and monitor closely.
Renal ImpairmentIn patients with renal impairment, dose reduction may be required. Monitor renal function closely. Use with caution in severe renal impairment.
Hepatic ImpairmentIn patients with hepatic impairment, dose reduction may be required. Monitor liver function closely. Use with caution in severe hepatic impairment.
Maximum Daily DoseThe maximum daily dose is not well established and depends on the indication. For malaria treatment, a single dose is usually given. For other indications, the dose is determined by the clinician. Do not exceed the prescribed dose.

Dosage Timeline

🌅 Morning ❌ ☀️ Afternoon ❌ 🌆 Evening ❌ 🌙 Night ❌

🍽️ Food Timing Guide

With food
Take with meals
Reduces stomach upset.
Alcohol
Avoid
May increase risk of liver toxicity.

⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose

📌 Less than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Take the missed dose as soon as you remember.
💡 Continue with the regular schedule.
📌 More than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Skip the missed dose.
💡 Do not double dose to catch up.

⚠️ Side Effects of curekelafine 25mg/500mg tablet

✅ Common Side Effects

Nausea (Common (5-10%))
Take with food to reduce nausea. If it persists, consult your doctor.
Vomiting (Common (5-10%))
Stay hydrated. If vomiting is severe or persistent, contact your doctor.
Stomach pain (Common (5-10%))
Take with a meal. If pain is severe, seek medical advice.
Headache (Common (5-10%))
Rest and stay hydrated. Consult doctor if headache is severe or persistent.
Dizziness (Common (5-10%))
Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how this medicine affects you.

🚨 Serious Side Effects

Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek immediate medical attention if you develop a rash, blisters, or peeling skin.
Agranulocytosis (Rare (<0.1%))
Report any signs of infection such as fever, sore throat, or mouth ulcers immediately.
Aplastic anemia (Very rare (<0.01%))
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience unusual tiredness, pale skin, or shortness of breath.
Hepatotoxicity (Rare (<0.1%))
Report yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine, or severe abdominal pain to your doctor immediately.
Severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) (Rare (<0.1%))
Call emergency services if you experience swelling of face, lips, throat, or difficulty breathing.

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

Seizures
Seek immediate medical attention.
Mental depression
Consult your doctor if you experience persistent sadness or mood changes.
Pancreatitis
Seek immediate medical attention if you have severe abdominal pain radiating to the back.

Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.

🔬 Drug Interactions

Drug Severity Effect
Warfarin Major
Methotrexate Major
Phenytoin Major
Trimethoprim Major
ACE inhibitors Moderate
Oral hypoglycemics Moderate
Thiazide diuretics Moderate
Antacids Minor
Kaolin-pectin Minor
Alcohol Moderate

🚨 Major Interactions

  • Warfarin
  • Methotrexate
  • Phenytoin
  • Trimethoprim

⚡ Moderate Interactions

  • ACE inhibitors
  • Oral hypoglycemics
  • Thiazide diuretics

🍷 Alcohol Interaction

Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine as it may increase the risk of liver toxicity and gastrointestinal side effects.

🔎 Check Your Other Medicines

Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.

🛡️ Safety & Warnings

🚫 Contraindications

["Known hypersensitivity to pyrimethamine, sulphadoxine, or any sulphonamide","Severe renal impairment","Severe hepatic impairment","Blood dyscrasias","Pregnancy (especially first trimester)","Infants less than 2 months of age","G6PD deficiency (may cause hemolysis)"]

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

["Serious skin reactions such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis have been reported. Discontinue at the first sign of rash.","Fatalities associated with the administration of sulphonamides have occurred due to severe reactions including agranulocytosis, aplastic anemia, and other blood dyscrasias.","Use with caution in patients with impaired liver or kidney function.","May cause folate deficiency; consider folate supplementation if used for prolonged periods.","Avoid in patients with G6PD deficiency due to risk of hemolytic anemia.","Not recommended for malaria prophylaxis in pregnant women unless the benefit outweighs the risk."]

🤱 Lactation Safety

Pyrimethamine and sulphadoxine are excreted in breast milk. Because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in nursing infants, a decision should be made whether to discontinue nursing or to discontinue the drug, taking into account the importance of the drug to the mother.

💊 Overdose Management

Overdose may cause nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, dizziness, and headache. In severe cases, blood dyscrasias and liver toxicity may occur. Treatment is supportive and symptomatic. There is no specific antidote. Gastric lavage may be considered if ingestion is recent. Monitor blood counts and liver function. Consider folinic acid rescue in cases of significant overdose.

⏰ Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Additional Safety Advice

General Safety

Take this medicine with plenty of water and preferably with food to reduce stomach upset. Do not exceed the prescribed dose. Complete the full course as prescribed by your doctor. Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine. Use effective contraception during treatment and for at least 3 months after, as this medicine may harm an unborn baby. Inform your doctor if you have glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency, liver or kidney problems, or blood disorders. Do not take this medicine if you are allergic to sulphonamides or pyrimethamine. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience skin rash, mouth sores, fever, or unusual bleeding or bruising.

👴 Special Considerations for Elderly

💡 For Patients Above 65

Elderly patients may have reduced kidney and liver function, which can affect how this medicine is cleared from the body. Dose adjustment may be necessary. Monitor for side effects closely.

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

If you are planning to become pregnant, discuss with your doctor before taking this medicine. It is not recommended during the first trimester and should be avoided unless absolutely necessary. Use effective contraception during treatment and for at least 3 months after.

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

Inform your surgeon and anesthesiologist that you are taking this medicine before any surgery. It may interact with other medications used during surgery.

🦷 Dental Procedures

Inform your dentist that you are taking this medicine before any dental procedure. It may increase the risk of bleeding or interact with other medications.

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏃
Use mosquito nets and repellents to prevent malaria.
🥗
Eliminate standing water around your home to reduce mosquito breeding.
😴
Maintain good hydration, especially if you have fever.
💧
Eat a balanced diet to support your immune system.
🧘
Get plenty of rest during treatment.
🌞
Avoid alcohol to reduce liver strain.

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

Avoid strenuous exercise if you feel dizzy or weak. Rest until you recover from the infection. Gradually resume activities as you feel better.

🥗 Diet Recommendations

Stay well hydrated with water and oral rehydration solutions.
Eat light, easily digestible meals.
Include fruits and vegetables rich in vitamins.
Avoid fatty and spicy foods if you have stomach upset.

💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life

This medicine may cause dizziness or fatigue. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how it affects you. Take rest and stay home if you have fever. Resume work only when you feel fully recovered.

🛑 When to Stop This Medicine

Do not stop this medicine without consulting your doctor. Complete the full prescribed course. If you experience severe side effects such as skin rash, mouth sores, or unusual bleeding, stop the medicine and seek immediate medical attention.

📅 Long-Term Use Effects

Long-term use of this medicine may lead to folate deficiency, blood disorders, and liver toxicity. Regular monitoring of blood counts and liver function is recommended if used for prolonged periods. It is not intended for long-term use except in specific conditions like toxoplasmosis prophylaxis, where the benefits are carefully weighed against the risks.

🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches

These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.

Artemisinin-based combination therapy (ACT)

First-line treatment for uncomplicated P. falciparum malaria in many countries.

Evidence: Well-established
Chloroquine

Used in areas where malaria is susceptible, but resistance is widespread.

Evidence: Well-established

💉 Vaccination Considerations

💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated

There are no known interactions between this medicine and vaccines. However, if you are due for a vaccine, inform your doctor that you are taking this medicine.

📦 Storage Guide

✅ DO

Store at room temperature (15-30°C)

❌ DON'T

Do not refrigerate unless specified

✅ DO

Keep in original container

❌ DON'T

Do not transfer to unmarked containers

✅ DO

Keep away from direct sunlight

❌ DON'T

Do not store in bathroom cabinet

✈️ Traveling with This Medicine

When traveling, carry this medicine in its original packaging along with a copy of your prescription. Store it at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture. If crossing time zones, adjust your dosing schedule as advised by your doctor. Check the customs regulations of your destination country regarding prescription medicines. Always carry enough supply for your entire trip.

💰 Cost Analysis & Savings

👥 Real Patient Stories

Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.

👤 A 35-year-old man diagnosed with uncomplicated malaria
He was prescribed this medicine as a single dose. He took it with food as advised. Within two days, his fever subsided and he felt better. He was advised to complete the dose and report any rash. He recovered fully without any side effects.
💡 Lesson: Taking the medicine with food and completing the dose as prescribed leads to effective treatment.
👤 A 28-year-old pregnant woman in her second trimester
She was diagnosed with malaria and was prescribed this medicine after careful consideration by her doctor. She was monitored closely for any adverse effects. She delivered a healthy baby and was advised to use contraception for 3 months postpartum.
💡 Lesson: Use of this medicine during pregnancy requires careful risk-benefit assessment and close monitoring.

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

Q: How long does it take to work?

A: This medicine usually starts working within 24-48 hours, but you may feel better after a few days. Complete the full course as prescribed.

Q: Can I take this medicine with food?

A: Yes, take it with food to reduce stomach upset.

Q: What should I avoid while taking this medicine?

A: Avoid alcohol and do not take more than the prescribed dose. Also, avoid driving if you feel dizzy.

Q: Is this medicine safe during pregnancy?

A: It is not recommended during the first trimester and should be used during pregnancy only if the benefit outweighs the risk. Consult your doctor.

Q: Can I breastfeed while taking this medicine?

A: This medicine passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.

🤔 Common Patient Concerns

💭 These are the concerns patients most commonly raise

  • Can I take this medicine long-term?
  • Will it affect my kidney function?
  • Can I drive after taking this medicine?
  • Does it interact with my blood pressure medicine?
  • What if I miss a dose?
  • Can I drink alcohol while taking this?

🔄 Substitutes for curekelafine 25mg/500mg tablet

View All

Alternative brands with exact same active ingredient:

Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.

🛑 Myths vs. Facts

  • Myth: This medicine can be taken for any type of fever.
    Fact: This medicine is specifically for malaria and certain other infections. It is not a general fever reducer and should not be used without a confirmed diagnosis.
  • Myth: It is safe to take this medicine without a prescription.
    Fact: This is a prescription medicine. Self-medication can lead to serious side effects and contribute to drug resistance.
  • Myth: Once you feel better, you can stop taking this medicine.
    Fact: You must complete the full course as prescribed by your doctor to ensure the infection is fully treated and to prevent resistance.

🔄 Alternative Options

Generic Alternatives

  • Pyrimethamine + Sulphadoxine (generic)

Brand Alternatives

  • Fansidar
  • Metakelfin
  • Laridox

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

[{"medicine":"This medicine","class":"Antifolate antimalarial","route":"Oral","common_use":"Malaria, toxoplasmosis","key_side_effects":"Skin reactions, blood dyscrasias"},{"medicine":"Artemether + Lumefantrine","class":"Artemisinin-based combination","route":"Oral","common_use":"Uncomplicated P. falciparum malaria","key_side_effects":"Headache, dizziness, GI upset"},{"medicine":"Chloroquine","class":"4-aminoquinoline","route":"Oral","common_use":"Malaria (where susceptible)","key_side_effects":"Retinopathy, GI upset"}]

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