Artesunate is used in the treatment of malaria (a disease characterised by chills, fever and sweating that is transmitted to people through the bite of an infected mosquito).
Take Artesunate exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not take more or less than instructed by your doctor.
Try to take it at the same time each day.
The dose of this medicine will be decided by your doctor. Your doctor will advise you on the course of treatment depending on your response to the medication.
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.
DO NOT double a dose under any circumstances.
If you often forget to take your medicine, let your doctor and pharmacist know.
Inform your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- heart disease
- stomach or bowel disease
- kidney disease
- liver disease
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
In addition to taking Artesunate, you must also take preventive measures to avoid mosquito bites. This will help prevent you from being re-infected with malaria. Use an effective insect repellent and wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants to reduce exposure. Avoid going out between dusk to dawn. Effective insect repellents should contain at least 20-33% diethyltoluamide (DEET).
Artesunate may cause any of the following side effects: headache, dizziness, diarrhoea, vomiting, stomach pain, and change in taste.
Some side effects may need immediate medical help. Alert your doctor quickly if you experience any of the following:
- signs and symptoms of blood disorder e.g. dark coloured urine, dark lips, pale skin, passing out, confusion, tiredness or weakness, shortness of breath, or yellowing of the skin or eyes
- signs and symptoms of allergic reaction e.g. rashes, breathlessness, swelling of the face, eyes, or mouth
Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any of these medicines:
- medicines for HIV infection e.g. nevirapine, ritonavir
- medicines for epilepsy (fits or seizures) e.g. carbamazepine, phenytoin
- medicines for cancer e.g. axitinib, vandetanib, imatinib
- rifampicin (medicine for TB, lung infection known as tuberculosis)
- diclofenac (medicine for pain and inflammation)
This list does not include all medicines that may interact with Artesunate.
Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicine, supplements, and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
Avoid alcohol.
Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.
Protect from light.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.
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