Pyrimethamine is an antiparasitic medication primarily used to treat toxoplasmosis and malaria by inhibiting the enzyme dihydrofolate reductase, which is crucial for the synthesis of nucleic acids in the parasites. It is often used in combination with other drugs to enhance its efficacy and to reduce the risk of resistance development.

Pyrimethamine

Antiparasitic medications are drugs designed to treat infections caused by parasites, including protozoa, helminths, and ectoparasites, by either killing the parasite or inhibiting its growth. These medications are crucial in controlling and eradicating parasitic diseases, which are a significant health burden in many parts of the world, especially in tropical and subtropical regions.

Antiparasitic Medication

Toxoplasmosis is an infection caused by the parasite Toxoplasma gondii, which is often transmitted through undercooked contaminated meat, cat feces, or mother-to-child during pregnancy. While most people experience mild or no symptoms, it can cause serious health problems for those with weakened immune systems and unborn babies.

Toxoplasmosis

Malaria is a life-threatening disease caused by Plasmodium parasites, transmitted to humans through the bites of infected female Anopheles mosquitoes. Despite being preventable and treatable, it remains a major public health challenge, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, due to factors like drug resistance, mosquito control challenges, and socioeconomic conditions.

Malaria

Dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR) is an essential enzyme that catalyzes the reduction of dihydrofolate to tetrahydrofolate, a critical step in the synthesis of nucleotides required for DNA replication and cell division. It is a target for several chemotherapeutic agents, such as methotrexate, due to its role in rapidly dividing cancer cells.

Dihydrofolate Reductase

Synthesis of nucleic acids

Parasites are tiny living things that live on or inside other living things, like animals or plants, and use them to get food and a safe place to live. They can sometimes make the animals or plants they live on feel sick or not grow well.

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