Primaquine (PQ) not only eliminates P. falciparum gametocytes but also kills 
liver dormant forms of P. vivax and P. ovale. Owing to these unique therapeutic 
properties, it is an essential drug. Although PQ has been used for over 70 
years, its toxicological database has gaps such as the absence of studies on its 
reproductive and developmental toxicity and kinetics in pregnancy. This study 
investigated the transplacental transfer of PQ and the effects of intrauterine 
exposure on the postnatal growth, survival, and neurobehavioral development of 
the offspring. PQ kinetics and transplacental transfer were investigated in rats 
treated orally (40 mg.kg·bw-1) on gestation day (GD) 21. PQ was analyzed by 
high-performance liquid chromatography with diode array ultraviolet detection. 
To evaluate effects of intrauterine exposure on postnatal development, dams were 
treated orally with PQ (20 mg.kg·bw-1·d-1) or water (controls) on GD 0-21. 
Postnatal survival, body weight gain, somatic maturation, and reflex acquisition 
were evaluated. The open field test (OF) was conducted on PND 25. PQ 
concentration in the fetal plasma was nearly half that in maternal plasma. 
Except for increase in pregnancy loss, no effects of PQ were noted at term 
pregnancy and first days of life. Prenatal PQ did not affect postnatal weight 
gain nor did it impair somatic and neurologic development of the offspring. Pups 
born to PQ-treated dams showed reduced exploration and enhanced emotionality in 
the OF. PQ given in pregnancy, at doses greater than those recommended for 
malaria therapy, may affect pup postnatal survival and emotional behavior.