Description:

Nosterex 80/480mg Tablet is a combination antimalarial medication used to treat acute uncomplicated malaria caused by Plasmodium falciparum (including chloroquine-resistant strains) in adults and children. It is an artemisinin-based combination therapy (ACT) that rapidly reduces parasite load and clears the infection.

Prescription:

• Prescription required; consult a physician before use.

Therapeutic Category:

• Antimalarial (artemisinin-based combination therapy for malaria treatment).

Active Ingredients/Composition:

• Artemether 80 mg (rapid-acting artemisinin derivative) + Lumefantrine 480 mg (long-acting antimalarial); may include inactive excipients like lactose, microcrystalline cellulose, and magnesium stearate.

Variant:

• Standard 80 mg/480 mg tablet; available in packs for different age/weight groups (e.g., for adults or children over 35 kg).

Consume Type:

• Oral (tablet form).

Directions/Usage:

• Take with food or milk to enhance absorption (fatty meals improve bioavailability). Standard regimen: Day 1 – 4 tablets at hour 0, then 4 tablets at hour 8; Days 2-3 – 4 tablets twice daily (morning and evening, 12 hours apart). For children, dose based on weight (e.g., 1 tablet per 15 kg). Swallow whole; complete full 6-dose course. Do not use for malaria prevention.

Common Side Effects:

• Headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, fatigue, cough, arthralgia, and palpitations. Most are mild and resolve quickly; serious effects like QT prolongation or severe allergic reactions require immediate medical attention.

Package Type:

• Strip of 24 tablets (for full adult course) or blister packs.

Storage Advice:

• Store below 30°C in a cool, dry place, protected from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.

Safety Advice:

• Avoid in severe malaria, hypersensitivity to artemisinins, or QT prolongation history. Use caution in hepatic/renal impairment (dose adjustment may be needed). Contraindicated with strong CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., rifampin). Pregnancy category C (use only if benefits outweigh risks, preferably second/third trimester); limited data in breastfeeding—consult doctor. Avoid alcohol and grapefruit juice. May impair driving if dizzy. Not for children under 5 kg. Inform doctor of concurrent medications to avoid interactions.

Product Substitutes:

• Coartem (artemether 20 mg/lumefantrine 120 mg, pediatric), Lumerax, Riamet, or other ACTs like artesunate + amodiaquine. Consult a doctor for suitable alternatives based on resistance patterns.