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Krintafel

Generic name: tafenoquine

Brand names: Arakoda, Krintafel

Used for malaria
Last updated November 2, 2026 0 views
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What is Krintafel?

Krintafel is a medicine used to prevent malaria. It works by stopping the growth of parasites in the human body. These parasites can enter the body when a mosquito bites you. Malaria is often found in regions like Africa, South America, and Southern Asia.

Krintafel is specifically used to prevent malaria caused by the Plasmodium vivax parasite.

Krintafel is for adults and children who are at least 16 years old and who are also taking another medicine called chloroquine.

Krintafel may also be used for reasons not mentioned in this medication guide.

This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.

How should I take Krintafel?

Before you take Krintafel, your doctor will test you to ensure you do not have G6PD deficiency.

Follow all instructions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Use the medicine exactly as directed.

The usual dose of tafenoquine is 2 tablets taken at the same time. Start taking Krintafel on the first or second day you begin taking chloroquine.

Take with food.

Swallow the tablets whole; do not crush, chew, or break them.

If you vomit within 1 hour after taking Krintafel, you may need to take a second dose. Call your doctor for instructions.

Call your doctor as soon as possible if you have been exposed to malaria, or if you have fever, vomiting, or diarrhea during or after being in an area where malaria is common.

Use protective clothing, insect repellents, and mosquito netting around your bed to help prevent mosquito bites that could lead to malaria.

No medication is 100% effective in treating or preventing all types of malaria. For best results, continue using the medication as directed.

Store at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.

Keep the tablets in their original container, along with the packet or canister of moisture-absorbing preservative.

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Warnings

You should not use Krintafel if you have a genetic enzyme deficiency called glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency. Your doctor will perform a test to ensure you do not have this condition.

This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use Krintafel if:

  • you have a genetic enzyme deficiency called glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency; or
  • you are allergic to Krintafel or similar medicines (such as primaquine).

Do not breastfeed while using Krintafel if your baby has G6PD deficiency (or has not been tested for it). If the baby does have G6PD deficiency, you should also not breastfeed for at least 3 months after your last dose of tafenoquine.

Krintafel may harm an unborn baby. You may need to have a negative pregnancy test before starting this treatment. Use effective birth control to prevent pregnancy while taking this medicine, and for at least 3 months after your last dose.

Tell your doctor right away if you become pregnant.

Tell your doctor if you have ever had:

  • a mental illness; or
  • liver or kidney disease.

Krintafel is not approved for use by anyone younger than 16 years old.

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Krintafel side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; dizziness, difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Krintafel may cause serious side effects. Call your doctor right away if you have:

  • pale or yellowed skin, dark colored urine;
  • darkening of your mouth, lips, or fingernails;
  • fast heartbeats, shortness of breath;
  • a headache, or feeling light-headed (like you might faint);
  • confusion, tiredness; or
  • new or worsening mental health problems—anxiety, strange dreams, trouble sleeping.

Common side effects of Krintafel may include:

  • nausea, vomiting;
  • abnormal hemoglobin tests;
  • dizziness; or
  • headache.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

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What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the medicine as soon as you remember, but skip the missed dose if it is nearly time for your next dose. Do not take two doses at the same time.

This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

Follow your doctor's instructions about any restrictions on food, drinks, or activities.

This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.

What other drugs will affect Krintafel?

Other drugs may affect Krintafel, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Inform your doctor about all your current medicines and any medicine you begin or stop using.

This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.

Frequently asked questions

  • Arakoda vs Krintafel - What's the difference between them?
  • How do you take Krintafel?

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Before you take this medicine: the information on this page is general and may not cover your personal circumstances. Read the label supplied with your medicine and ask a pharmacist or doctor if you are unsure, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking other medicines or managing a long-term condition.
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Content is provided for education and is not medical advice. See our medical disclaimer.