Alpha-beta Arteether

Dosage Forms Available

• Alpha-Beta Arteether comes as an injectable solution administered intramuscularly.

Age and Dose Restrictions

• Alpha-Beta Arteether is meant for both adults and children above the age of 16 years. The paediatric dosage is based on body weight.

Contraindications

• This medicine is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to artemisinin derivatives and those with severe kidney or liver disease.

Other Medications to Avoid

• This combination may interact with cytochrome P450 3A4 enzyme inducers (such as rifampicin and carbamazepine), QT-prolonging medicines (like amiodarone and sotalol), and other antimalarials (such as mefloquine).

Overdose and Missed Dose

• An overdose may result in toxicity including but not limited to increased liver enzymes, neurotoxicity, or severe allergic reactions. Immediate medical attention should be sought if an overdose is suspected.

• If a dose is missed, it should be administered as soon as possible. However, if it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with the regular schedule. Do not administer two doses at one time to make up for a missed dose.

Management of Side Effects

Most side effects are temporary and generally harmless and resolve when discontinuing this medicine. However, if you experience severe side effects or worsening symptoms, please consult your doctor.

• To manage nausea, try taking the medication after meals.

• If experiencing dizziness or headaches, resting in a quiet, dark room may help.

• Staying hydrated can help manage diarrhoea and abdominal pain.

Use in Driving and Operating Machinery

• This combination may cause dizziness or somnolence. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how it affects you.

Use in Pregnancy and Lactation

• This medicine is not safe to use during breastfeeding and pregnancy, especially in the first trimester. It should only be used when clearly needed and after a risk/benefit assessment by your doctor.

Caution in Other Conditions

• Caution should be exercised when administering Alpha-Beta Arteether to patients with mild to moderate liver impairment, renal impairment, or pre-existing heart conditions.

Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations

• Ensure good hydration especially if experiencing diarrhoea or vomiting.

• Opt for light meals that are easy on the stomach if nausea or abdominal pain occurs after administration.

• Rest adequately to support recovery from malaria; avoid physically strenuous activities during treatment.

• Protect yourself from mosquito bites by using repellents, mosquito nets, and staying indoors during peak mosquito activity times to prevent re-infection.

• Regular follow-up appointments are crucial to monitor your response to treatment and manage any potential side effects.