Artemether + lumefantrine - oral


Patient Medicine Information
Why do I need this medicine?
Artemether and Lumefantrine are combined together in this medicine.

Artemether + Lumefantrine is used together with other medicines to treat uncomplicated malaria. Malaria is a serious infection that is spread by mosquitoes.
How do I take this medicine?
Take Artemether + Lumefeantrine 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.

The dose of this medicine will be decided by your doctor. Your doctor will advise you on the course of the therapy depending on your age, weight and condition.

This medicine should be taken with food. Try to take it at a regular interval each day.

This medicine is available as a dispersible tablet. If you have difficulties swallowing tablets, you may crush the dispersible tablet and mix it with one to two teaspoons of water, stir and drink immediately. If remains of the crushed medicine are left in the container, rinse it with a small amount of water, and drink it. If possible, each dose should be followed with a food or drink (e.g. milk, formula, pudding, broth or porridge).

If you vomit within 1-2 hours after taking Artemether + Lumefantrine, you may take another dose of this medicine. If vomiting persists, inform you doctor or pharmacist.

Do not skip any doses. You must complete the entire course of medicine. if you don’t, the infection will not be properly controlled.
What should I do if I have forgotten to take this medicine?
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.
When should I not use this medicine?
Do not take this medicine if you ever had an allergic reaction (rashes, breathlessness, swollen eyes) to Artemether or Lumefantrine.

Alert your doctor if you have the following conditions:
  • severe heart disease
  • heart rhythm disorder or a family history of any other heart problems
  • low levels of potassium or magnesium in the blood
as Artemether + Lumefantrine may not be suitable for you.

Do not take Artemether + Lumefantrine with medicines for epilepsy (fits or seizures), medicines for tuberculosis or TB, and certain herbal medicines. Please see the section “Can I take this with other medicines?” below for more information.
What should I take note of while taking this medicine?
Inform your doctor if you have the following conditions:
  • liver disease
  • kidney disease
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

In addition to taking Artemether + Lumefantrine, 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, 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).

This medicine is not indicated for the prevention of malaria, or for the treatment of severe or complicated malaria.
What side effects could I experience?
Artemether + Lumefantrine may cause dizziness and tiredness. If affected, do not drive or take part in any activity in which you need to be alert.

Other side effects include any of the following: headache, weakness or lack of energy, difficulty sleeping, stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, loss of appetite, fever, chills, joint pain, muscle pain, and cough.

If you develop rashes, breathlessness, swollen mouth or eyes, stop taking Artemether + Lumefantrine and inform your doctor quickly. These could be signs of an allergic reaction.

Some side effects may need immediate medical help. Alert your doctor quickly if you experience palpitation, fast or irregular heartbeat.

Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Can I take this with other medicines?
Do not take Artemether + Lumefentrine with the following medicines:
  • medicines for epilepsy (fits or seizures) e.g. phenytoin, carbamazepine
  • medicine for tuberculosis or TB e.g. rifampicin
  • St. John’s wort (herbal medicine)
Inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any of these medicines:
  • other medicines for malaria e.g. mefloquine, halofantrine
  • medicine for fungal infection e.g. ketoconazole
  • medicines for abnormal heart rhythm e.g. quinidine, amiodarone
  • medicine for HIV infection e.g. ritonavir
  • medicines for depression e.g. imipramine, amitriptyline, clomipramine
Inform your doctor if you are currently taking birth control pills as this can reduce the effectiveness of Artemether + Lumefantrine. You should not stop or start any birth control pills without first informing your doctor. Ask your doctor about using non-hormonal birth control as an alternative while being treated with this medicine.

This list does not include all medicines that may interact with Artemether + Lumefantrine.

Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
What special dietary instructions should I follow?
Avoid alcohol and grapefruit juice.
How should I store this medicine?
Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.

Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.
This information is independently developed by MIMS based on artemether + lumefantrine - oral and is provided for your reference only. It is not a replacement for and should only be used in conjunction with full consultation with a licensed healthcare professional, the information provided by your pharmacist and/or the manufacturer of the medication. It may not contain all the available information you require and cannot substitute professional medical care, nor does it take into account all individual circumstances. Although great effort has been made to ensure content accuracy, we shall not be held responsible or liable for any claims or damages arising from the use or misuse of the information contained herein, its contents or omissions, or otherwise. Copyright © 2024 MIMS. All rights reserved. Powered by MIMS.com
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