Arakoda is taken orally. It is available as a tablet to be taken once a week. Here are the general steps in using Arakoda:

Before Traveling: The first dose should be taken 3 days before travel to a malaria-endemic area. This ensures that the medication has time to build up in the system and provide adequate protection.

During Travel: Arakoda should be taken once a week during travel in malaria-endemic regions. It is important to follow the prescribed dosing schedule and take the medication on the same day each week.

After Traveling: The treatment should be continued for 7 days after leaving the malaria-endemic area.

Arakoda should be taken with food to facilitate absorption and minimize the chance of stomach upset.

Arakoda works by targeting and removing the liver stage of malaria parasites. A mosquito infected with Plasmodium injects the parasite to a human being where after a while, the same ends up in the human’s liver. Thereafter, the parasite undergoes multiplication in the liver before coming back to the human blood to infect the erythrocytes, resulting in symptoms of malaria- fever, chills and anemia.

Tafenoquine is the active pharmaceutical ingredient in Arakoda, which prevents the malaria parasite from going past the liver stage, meaning the infection is stopped before it can spread and symptoms begin.

This action makes it a good tool for prevention of malaria, especially if taken as prescribed before and during travel to malaria-endemic areas.

Most people take Arakoda with relative ease; however, few individuals have reported adverse reactions. Common side effects from Arakoda are given below:

Mild Side Effects:

• Nausea or upset stomach
• Headache or dizziness
• Fatigue
• Loss of appetite
• Insomnia

Serious Side Effects (rare but serious):

Hemolytic anemia: A dangerous condition where red blood cells are destroyed, which could happen in a person having G6PD deficiency. It requires immediate medical intervention.

Psychiatric Symptoms: Arakoda may provoke mood changes or other psychiatric symptoms in some people. Anyone with a history of mental illness should consult the physician before using Arakoda.

Liver Damage: Jaundice or elevated liver enzymes are rare but may occur. Patients with a history of liver disease should be avoided or used with extreme caution under strict medical supervision.

If any serious adverse effects occur, the patient should seek immediate medical attention.

G6PD Deficiency: Arakoda should not be administered to patients with G6PD deficiency as it may lead to hemolytic anemia. Before prescribing Arakoda, a healthcare provider will usually perform a G6PD test to ensure that the patient is not at risk.

Liver Disease: Arakoda should be used with caution in patients with liver disease as it is metabolized by the liver. Regular liver function tests may be required during treatment.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Arakoda is contraindicated during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Its safety has not been established in these periods and may cause harm to the baby.

Psychiatric Health: Patients with psychiatric diseases, including depression and anxiety, should use Arakoda with extreme caution and discuss their concerns with the doctor.

Arakoda (tafenoquine) interacts with many drugs. Some of the significant interactions include:

Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors: Medications that are strong inhibitors of the enzyme CYP3A4, such as certain antifungal drugs, HIV drugs, and antibiotics, can elevate tafenoquine blood levels, increasing the risk of side effects.

Antimalarial drugs: Concomitant administration of tafenoquine with other antimalarial drugs such as chloroquine, mefloquine, or quinine should be closely monitored to avoid additive toxicities.

Drugs that affect the liver: Tafenoquine is metabolized by the liver, and drugs that influence liver enzymes can alter the effectiveness or safety of Arakoda.

Patients should discuss all the drugs they are taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and herbal supplements, with their healthcare provider to avoid potential interactions.

Standard Dosing: The recommended dose for adults and children weighing at least 35 kg is 300 mg once a week, initiated 3 days before traveling to a malaria-endemic area and continued for 7 days after leaving the area.

Monitoring: Patients should follow the dosing schedule as recommended and be seen at follow-up visits to monitor for any adverse effects or complications.

Arakoda is only available by prescription. Patients should seek medical attention from a healthcare provider to assess their medical condition and formulate the right dose and therapy. Patients should report all other medications being taken in addition to informing their prescriber whether they have any over-the-counter medications or supplements.

1. What is Arakoda?

   • Answer: Arakoda is a brand name for a medication containing aripiprazole, an atypical antipsychotic used to treat conditions like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and major depressive disorder.

2. How does Arakoda work?

   • Answer: Arakoda works by balancing chemicals in the brain, specifically dopamine and serotonin, which helps to reduce symptoms of mood and thought disorders.

3. What conditions is Arakoda used to treat?

   • Answer: Arakoda is primarily used to treat schizophrenia, manic and mixed episodes associated with bipolar disorder, and as an adjunct treatment for major depressive disorder.

4. What are the common side effects of Arakoda?

   • Answer: Common side effects include insomnia, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and weight gain. Patients may also experience anxiety or agitation.

5. Can I take Arakoda with other medications?

   • Answer: Arakoda may interact with other medications, so it’s essential to inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking.

6. Is Arakoda safe during pregnancy?

   • Answer: The safety of Arakoda during pregnancy is not fully established. It’s crucial for pregnant women to discuss the risks and benefits with their healthcare provider.

7. How should I take Arakoda?

   • Answer: Arakoda is usually taken once daily, either with or without food. It’s important to follow the dosage prescribed by your doctor and not to chew or crush the pills.

8. What should I do if I miss a dose of Arakoda?

   • Answer: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it’s close to the time of your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule. Do not double up on doses.

9. Can I stop taking Arakoda suddenly?

   • Answer: No, you should not stop taking Arakoda suddenly without consulting your doctor, as it can lead to withdrawal symptoms or worsening of your condition.

10. What should I do if I experience severe side effects?

    • Answer: If you experience severe side effects, such as confusion, mood changes, or any allergic reactions (like swelling or difficulty breathing), seek medical attention immediately.

11. Can Arakoda cause weight gain?

    • Answer: Yes, weight gain is a documented side effect of Arakoda. Regular monitoring of weight and lifestyle modifications may be necessary.

12. Is Arakoda suitable for children?

    • Answer: Arakoda is not typically indicated for children under certain ages, and its use in younger populations should only be determined by a pediatrician or psychiatrist.

13. How long does it take for Arakoda to work?

    • Answer: Some patients may notice improvements within a few days, but it may take several weeks for the full effects of Arakoda to become apparent.

14. What precautions should I take while using Arakoda?

    • Answer: Patients should be cautious about driving or operating heavy machinery until they know how Arakoda affects them. Additionally, regular follow-ups with a healthcare provider are advisable.

15. Can alcohol be consumed while taking Arakoda?

    • Answer: It’s advisable to avoid alcohol while taking Arakoda, as it can increase the risk of side effects like sedation and impaired judgment.

16. What should I do if I experience suicidal thoughts while on Arakoda?

    • Answer: If you experience suicidal thoughts or behaviors, contact your healthcare provider or seek immediate medical assistance. This is a critical situation that requires urgent attention.

17. Is there a risk of developing diabetes while taking Arakoda?

    • Answer: There is a potential risk of metabolic changes, including weight gain and glucose dysregulation, which may lead to diabetes. Regular monitoring of blood sugar levels is recommended.

18. How can I store Arakoda safely?

    • Answer: Arakoda should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture and heat, and out of reach of children and pets.

19. Can I take Arakoda if I have a history of seizures?

    • Answer: Individuals with a history of seizures should use Arakoda with caution and only under the guidance of a healthcare provider, as medications may exacerbate seizure risks.

20. Where can I find more information about Arakoda?

    • Answer: For more information, consult your healthcare provider, visit the official medication website, or refer to the prescribing information that comes with the medication.