Description:

Mether-L Suspension is an oral antimalarial medication used for the treatment of uncomplicated malaria caused by Plasmodium falciparum in children and adults (when weight-appropriate). It is a fixed-dose artemisinin-based combination therapy (ACT) combining artemether (fast-acting artemisinin derivative) and lumefantrine (longer-acting partner drug) to rapidly clear parasites and prevent resistance.

Prescription:

• Prescription required; consult a physician before use.

Therapeutic Category:

• Antimalarial (artemisinin-based combination therapy / ACT for uncomplicated falciparum malaria).

Active Ingredients/Composition:

• Artemether 20 mg + Lumefantrine 120 mg per 5 mL (after reconstitution; standard pediatric strength). Other ingredients: Excipients such as sucrose, preservatives, flavors, suspending agents, and stabilizers (exact list may vary slightly by batch).

Variant:

• Pediatric oral suspension (20 mg artemether + 120 mg lumefantrine per 5 mL after reconstitution); bottle size typically 60 mL or 100 mL after adding water.

Consume Type:

• Oral (suspension after reconstitution with water).

Directions/Usage:

Reconstitute dry powder with provided or boiled/cooled water as per label (shake vigorously). Shake well before each dose. Take with food or milk to improve absorption.

• Dosage based on body weight (WHO guideline):
  • 5–<15 kg: 1 dose (5 mL) twice daily for 3 days.
  • 15–<25 kg: 2 doses (10 mL) twice daily for 3 days.
  • 25–<35 kg: 3 doses (15 mL) twice daily for 3 days.
  • ≥35 kg: Adult tablet equivalent (use 80/480 mg tablets if available).
• First dose as soon as possible, second dose 8 hours later, then twice daily for next 2 days (total 6 doses).
• Complete full course even if symptoms improve. If vomiting within 1 hour, repeat dose.

Common Side Effects:

• Headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, fatigue, cough, or palpitations. Most are mild and resolve after treatment. Rare: QT prolongation, allergic reactions, or severe diarrhea.

Package Type:

• Dry powder bottle (for reconstitution to 60 mL or 100 mL suspension) with measuring cup/spoon.

Storage Advice:

• Store unreconstituted powder below 30°C in a cool, dry place, protected from light and moisture. After reconstitution: Refrigerate (2–8°C) and use within 7 days. Do not freeze. Keep out of reach of children.

Safety Advice:

• Not for severe/complicated malaria (use injectable artesunate). Avoid in first trimester unless no alternatives (use in 2nd/3rd if needed). Use caution in breastfeeding (limited data). Contraindicated with strong CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., rifampicin) or QT-prolonging drugs without monitoring. May reduce effectiveness of hormonal contraceptives. Inform doctor of heart, liver, kidney issues, or other medications. Complete full course to prevent resistance. Not for prophylaxis.

Product Substitutes:

• Coartem Dispersible or suspension (Novartis)
• Lonart Suspension
• Lumet Trust Suspension
• Artemether + Lumefantrine pediatric suspensions (e.g., Medmal, Gen M, or other generics in Ghana). Consult a doctor for suitable alternatives.

Manufacturer/Marketer:

• HP Pharma

Country of Origin:

• India