Definition

A medication used mainly to prevent and treat malaria, as well as to treat a condition caused by a parasite called toxoplasmosis.

Example

The doctor prescribed pyrimethamine to help prevent malaria during their trip to Africa.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of pyrimethamine?

Yeah, I think it's used to prevent malaria, right?

Exactly! My doctor recommended it for my trip to a tropical area.

That sounds smart; it's always good to be prepared.

Root Explanation

Pyrimethamine is formed from 'pyrimidine' (a type of organic compound) and 'methamine' (a derivative of methanol). The word refers to a compound that contains a pyrimidine structure and is used as an antimalarial medication.

Memory Tip

Think of 'pyrimidine' as a building block of this medication, which helps you remember that pyrimethamine is related to a specific chemical structure used in treating malaria.

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