Description:

S-Maximus Suspension is a fixed-dose oral antimalarial suspension used to treat acute, uncomplicated Plasmodium falciparum malaria in children and adults, including infections in chloroquine-resistant areas. It is a WHO-recommended artemisinin-based combination therapy (ACT) that rapidly clears parasites from the blood.

Prescription:

• Prescription required; consult a physician before use.

Therapeutic Category:

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

Active Ingredients/Composition:

• Artemether (antimalarial artemisinin derivative) and Lumefantrine (aryl amino alcohol antimalarial); typical pediatric suspension strengths are 20 mg artemether + 120 mg lumefantrine per dose, with inactive ingredients including sucrose, flavors, and suspending agents.

Variant:

• Pediatric oral suspension (e.g., 60 mL bottle providing multiple doses based on weight); available in different concentrations for age/weight groups (e.g., for children 5-15 kg).

Consume Type:

• Oral (suspension after reconstitution or ready-to-use form).

Directions/Usage:

• Reconstitute if dry powder form, then shake well before use. Administer with food or milk to improve absorption (e.g., twice daily for 3 days: first dose, then 8 hours later, followed by daily doses). Dosage based on body weight (e.g., 5-15 kg: 1 dose per administration). Complete full 6-dose course as prescribed; do not use for malaria prevention.

Common Side Effects:

• Headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, anorexia, fatigue, arthralgia, myalgia, cough, and palpitations. Serious effects may include QT prolongation or allergic reactions; seek medical help if symptoms worsen.

Package Type:

• Bottle of oral suspension (e.g., 60 mL or 100 mL with measuring device).

Storage Advice:

• Store below 30°C in a cool, dry place away from light and moisture. After reconstitution, refrigerate and use within 7-14 days; keep out of reach of children.

Safety Advice:

• Avoid in severe malaria or with history of QT prolongation, severe cardiac/hepatic/renal impairment. Contraindicated with strong CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., rifampin, carbamazepine). Use caution in pregnancy (category C, only if benefits outweigh risks) and breastfeeding (limited data). Avoid grapefruit products and alcohol. May reduce effectiveness of hormonal contraceptives. Not for children under 5 kg or 2 months old. Inform doctor of all medications to avoid interactions.

Product Substitutes:

• Coartem (Novartis), Co-artesiane (Dafra Pharma), Riamet, or generic artemether-lumefantrine suspensions. Consult a doctor for suitable alternatives.

Manufacturer/Marketer:

• Scab Pharma Limited

Country of Origin:

• Ghana