Sulfadoxine is a medication primarily used to treat infections caused by certain types of bacteria and parasites. It belongs to a class of drugs known as sulfonamides, which work by inhibiting the growth of bacteria and preventing the synthesis of folic acid, an essential nutrient for their survival. Often combined with pyrimethamine, sulfadoxine is effective in treating malaria, particularly in areas where the disease is resistant to other treatments. It is usually administered orally and is important in managing infections in regions where malaria is prevalent.