Arteether / Artemotil + Lumefantrine

Dosage Forms Available

• Arteether/Artemotil + Lumefantrine is available in the form of oral tablets.

Age and Dose Restrictions

• Arteether/Artemotil + Lumefantrine is suitable for use in adults, children, and infants weighing 5 kg or more.

Contraindications

• This combination is contraindicated in patients with severe malaria.

• It is also contraindicated in patients with a history of arrhythmias or prolonged QT interval.

• Patients with known hypersensitivity to either component should not use it.

Other Medications to Avoid

• This combination may interact with strong inducers of CYP3A4 enzymes (such as rifampin and carbamazepine), strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 (like ketoconazole and clarithromycin), medicines known to prolong the QT interval (such as quinidine, amiodarone), and other antimalarials like mefloquine, quinine, and quinidine.

Overdose and Missed Dose

• An overdose may lead to potential toxicity, resulting in symptoms related to its known side effects such as dizziness and headaches. If an overdose is suspected, immediate medical attention is necessary.

• If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dose schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for the missed one.

Management of Side Effects

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

• To manage nausea, try taking the combination with food, unless your doctor advises otherwise.

• If experiencing dizziness, sit or lie down until the symptom passes.

Use in Driving and Operating Machinery

• Arteether/Artemotil + Lumefantrine may cause symptoms such as dizziness or fatigue, which could affect your ability to drive or operate machinery. It is advisable to avoid these activities if you feel unwell.

Use in Pregnancy and Lactation

• The safety of this combination during pregnancy and lactation has not been fully established. It is important to consult your doctor before using this combination if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Caution in Other Conditions

• Patients with hepatic impairment should be cautious when using this combination as it is metabolised in the liver. Monitoring for adverse effects is recommended in these cases.

• Use in patients with renal impairment has not been well studied; thus caution is advised.

Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations

• Consuming dietary fats may enhance the absorption of Lumefantrine; therefore, taking the tablets with meals or milk might be beneficial.

• Maintaining hydration is important while managing malaria; ensure adequate fluid intake unless otherwise directed by a doctor.

• Avoid mosquito bites by using protective measures such as insect repellant sprays, nets, and wearing long-sleeved clothes to prevent reinfection.