Artheget

Description Artemether/Lumefantrine Tablets combine Artemether (20mg) and Lumefantrine (120mg), an artemisinin-based combination therapy (ACT) for treating severe malaria, including cerebral malaria and chloroquine-resistant Plasmodium falciparum malaria. Artemether rapidly kills malaria parasites by generating free radicals that disrupt parasite membranes, while Lumefantrine provides prolonged clearance to prevent recrudescence. This fixed-dose oral tablet is suitable for adults and children over 5kg, offering fast-acting relief for acute malaria infections when administered with a high-fat meal to enhance absorption.

Ingredients Artemether 20mg, Lumefantrine 120mg.

Drug Class Antimalarial / Artemisinin-Based Combination Therapy (ACT).

Dosage Form Tablet (Pack size not specified; typically 6, 12, 18, or 24 tablets per strip).

Uses Artemether/Lumefantrine Tablets are prescribed for:

• Treatment of acute, uncomplicated malaria caused by Plasmodium falciparum.
• Management of severe malaria, including cerebral malaria.
• Second-line therapy for chloroquine-resistant P. falciparum malaria.
• Eradication of malaria parasites in adults and children (>5kg body weight).
• Adjunct in regions with high multidrug-resistant malaria prevalence.

Doctor’s Review Dr. Imran Malik, a leading infectious disease specialist in Islamabad, recommends this combination for its rapid efficacy: “Artemether/Lumefantrine is a first-line ACT for severe and resistant malaria, clearing parasites quickly with a 3-day regimen. Its high cure rate is impressive, but I always ensure cardiac monitoring due to Lumefantrine’s QT prolongation risk.”

Dosage (Follow physician’s instructions — typical guideline)

• Adults & Children >35kg: 4 tablets (80mg Artemether/480mg Lumefantrine) twice daily for 3 days (total 24 tablets).
• Children (5-35kg):
  • 5-15kg: 1 tablet twice daily for 3 days.
  • 15-25kg: 2 tablets twice daily for 3 days.
  • 25-35kg: 3 tablets twice daily for 3 days.
• Take with a high-fat meal/snack to enhance absorption; repeat dose if vomited within 1 hour.
• No adjustment for mild renal/hepatic impairment; avoid in severe cases.
• Not for prophylaxis—use only for active infection.

In Case of Overdose Overdose may cause dizziness, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, or QT prolongation (arrhythmia risk). Seek immediate medical attention. Treatment is supportive, including ECG monitoring for heart rhythm changes and symptom management (e.g., antiemetics). No specific antidote exists.

Missed Dose Take the missed dose as soon as remembered with food, unless close to the next dose. Do not double up to avoid side effects like dizziness or heart rhythm issues. Resume the 3-day schedule and consult your doctor if multiple doses are missed.

How to Use

• Swallow tablets whole with a glass of water, ideally with a high-fat meal (e.g., milk, nuts) to boost Lumefantrine absorption.
• Take doses 12 hours apart (e.g., morning and evening) for 3 days.
• Do not crush or chew unless dispersible tablets are prescribed.
• If vomiting occurs within 1 hour, repeat the dose.
• Complete the full 3-day course to prevent parasite resistance.

When Not to Use Avoid Artemether/Lumefantrine if:

• Allergic to Artemether, Lumefantrine, or excipients.
• History of arrhythmias, bradycardia, or congestive heart failure.
• Severe electrolyte disturbances (e.g., hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia).
• Using drugs that prolong QT interval (e.g., quinine, halofantrine).
• Pregnant (especially first trimester) or breastfeeding without doctor approval.
• Recent use of other antimalarials (within 1-2 months) unless cleared.

Side Effects Common:

• Abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea.
• Anorexia (reduced appetite), dizziness.
• Headache, fatigue.

Uncommon / Severe (Stop and seek medical help):

• QT prolongation (palpitations, fainting, irregular heartbeat).
• Allergic reactions (rash, swelling, breathing difficulty).
• Reticulocytopenia (low red blood cell precursors).
• Liver dysfunction (yellowing skin, dark urine).

Precautions & Warnings

• Use cautiously in patients with heart conditions or family history of sudden cardiac death—monitor ECG for QT prolongation.
• Avoid in electrolyte disturbances (e.g., low potassium/magnesium)—correct before treatment.
• May cause dizziness—avoid driving or machinery until adjusted.
• Monitor for signs of resistance or relapse in endemic areas.
• Diabetic patients: Monitor glucose, as malaria or anorexia may affect levels.
• Recent antimalarial use (past 1-2 months) may alter efficacy—inform your doctor.

Drug Interactions

• CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, ritonavir): Increase Lumefantrine levels, risking QT prolongation.
• CYP2D6 substrates (e.g., metoprolol, fluoxetine): May alter metabolism—monitor effects.
• Class Ia/III antiarrhythmics (e.g., quinidine, amiodarone): Avoid due to additive QT effects.
• Antimalarials (e.g., mefloquine, quinine): Increased toxicity risk—space treatments.
• Hormonal contraceptives: Reduced efficacy—use backup contraception.
• Azole antifungals, antipsychotics, antidepressants: Monitor for QT prolongation.

Food Interactions

• Take with a high-fat meal/snack (e.g., cheese, yogurt) to enhance Lumefantrine absorption.
• Avoid grapefruit juice—may increase Lumefantrine levels, risking side effects.
• Limit alcohol to prevent worsening nausea or liver strain.
• Maintain hydration to support recovery and ease GI side effects.

Storage/Disposal

• Store at room temperature (18-25°C), away from direct light and moisture.
• Keep in original packaging, out of reach of children and pets.
• Do not use past expiration date; check package for details.
• Dispose via pharmacy take-back programs; do not flush or trash.

Quick Tips

• Take with a fatty meal to ensure proper absorption.
• Complete the full 3-day course to prevent resistance.
• Report heart palpitations or fainting immediately.
• Stay hydrated to ease nausea and diarrhea.
• Avoid other antimalarials unless prescribed.

Disclaimer This information is provided for educational purposes only and does not replace medical advice. Use only under the supervision of a licensed physician. Do not self-medicate.