NCIt definition : A synthetic, 8-aminoquinoline derivative with antimalarial properties. Although its
mechanism of action is unclear, primaquine bind to and alter the properties of protozoal
DNA. This agent eliminates tissue (exo-erythrocytic) malarial infection, preventing
the development of the erythrocytic forms of the parasite which are responsible for
relapses in Plasmodium vivax and ovale malaria. Primaquine is active against late
hepatic stages (hypnozoites, schizonts). (NCI04);