Description

A fixed-dose antimalarial combination consisting of artemether (a fast-acting artemisinin derivative) and lumefantrine (a longer-acting arylamino alcohol). It’s used for treating uncomplicated Plasmodium falciparum malaria, providing rapid parasite clearance coupled with sustained suppression. Commonly recognized under trade names such as Coartem and Riamet.

 Prescription

• Prescription-only medicine (Rx-only) in most jurisdictions; not intended for self-medication.

Therapeutic Category

• Antimalarial, artemisinin-based combination therapy (ACT)
• WHO‑recommended first-line treatment for uncomplicated P. falciparum malaria.
  

 Active Ingredients / Composition

• Artemether – 80 mg per tablet
• Lumefantrine – 480 mg per tablet
• Plus unspecified excipients (typical formulation).
  

Variant

• Single dosage form: oral tablet—80/480 fixed-dose. Typically available in blister packs containing 6 tablets.

Consume Type

• Oral administration; tablets are taken by mouth, typically with food to enhance absorption (especially fatty meals).

Directions / Usage

• Standard 6-dose regimen over three days (e.g., 0, 8, 24, 36, 48, 60 hours).
• Each dose: one tablet (80/480) at the specified times.
• Dose timing and number may vary according to weight and national guidelines.
• In Ghana, adults/≥35 kg typically receive the 80/480 tablets every 8–12 hours for 3 days.
  

 Common Side Effects

As reported (e.g., for Coartem):

• Very common: headache, dizziness, anorexia, fatigue, muscle/joint pain, fever, abdominal discomfort, nausea, sleep disorders, palpitations, vomiting.
• Other: tinnitus, tremor, pruritus, vertigo, gastrointestinal issues, nasopharyngitis.
• Serious (rare): QT‑interval prolongation (cardiac risk), severe hypersensitivity/anaphylaxis.
  

Package Type

• Typically sold in blister packs – 1 × 6 tablets per pack. Packaging may use alu/alu or alu/PVC strips.

Storage Advice

• Store in a cool, dry place, protected from light, in an airtight container. Ideal storage conditions align with standard room temperature guidelines.

Safety Advice

• Contraindications: history of hypersensitivity to artemether, lumefantrine, or excipients. Not for severe or complicated malaria.
  QT prolongation risk: Avoid co‑administration with other QT‑prolonging drugs or in patients with known heart rhythm disorders. Monitor ECG if needed.
  
• Drug Interactions:
  • CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., rifampin, carbamazepine, St. John’s wort) can reduce effectiveness.
  • CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., grapefruit juice) may increase levels and QT risk.
  • May reduce efficacy of hormonal contraceptives—instruct patients to use barrier methods.
• Pregnancy and lactation: appears safe; recommended by WHO for use in pregnancy (category C/D depending on region), malaria poses substantial risks if untreated.
  

Product Substitute

Other branded or generic artemether‑lumefantrine (80/480 mg) products available in various markets:

• Coartem (Novartis)
• Savatem, Marcat, Artemef, Afemart, Fantarten (Nigeria)

Manufacturer / Marketer

• Scab pharmacy

16. Country of Origin

• Ghana