Artesunate Plus Tablet (Antimalaria) x24

Artesunate Plus Tablet is an antimalarial combination therapy containing Artesunate (50mg) and Amodiaquine (200mg as hydrochloride, equivalent to 153mg amodiaquine base). This co-packaged treatment includes 12 white Artesunate tablets and 12 yellow Amodiaquine film-coated tablets in separate blisters.

Uses

Artesunate Plus Tablet is indicated for the treatment of all cases of acute uncomplicated malaria. This combination therapy is effective against Plasmodium falciparum malaria, including many drug-resistant strains in endemic regions.

Benefits

• Rapidly clears malaria parasites from bloodstream
• Effective against many drug-resistant malaria strains
• Reduces fever and symptoms typically within 24-48 hours
• Prevents recrudescence through dual-action mechanism
• Follows WHO-recommended combination therapy approach
• Higher cure rates compared to monotherapy
• Reduces transmission potential
• Standardized dosing simplifies treatment regimen
• Clearly differentiated tablets (yellow Amodiaquine, white Artesunate)

How It Works

Artesunate acts rapidly to kill blood-stage parasites through free radical generation and membrane damage, providing quick symptom relief. Amodiaquine works as a blood schizonticide with a longer half-life to eliminate remaining parasites and prevent recurrence. This combination provides effective parasite clearance while reducing the risk of resistance development.

Dosage

Take tablets orally with water for 3 consecutive days. Administration with food may reduce gastrointestinal side effects.

Duration of Action

Artesunate Plus begins working within hours of the first dose, with parasites typically reduced by 90% within 24 hours. Fever and symptoms usually subside within 1-2 days. Artesunate has a short half-life for immediate effect, while Amodiaquine provides extended action for several days after treatment completion.

Side Effects

Common side effects include mild headache, dizziness, weakness, and gastrointestinal disturbances like nausea, vomiting, or abdominal pain. Amodiaquine may occasionally cause mild itching or skin reactions. Most side effects are transient and resolve after completing treatment.

Warning

Complete the full 3-day treatment course even if symptoms improve quickly. Do not use in patients with previous adverse reactions to either component. Severe vomiting, extreme weakness, yellowing of eyes, dark urine, or seizures require immediate medical attention. Not recommended for severe or complicated malaria requiring intravenous therapy.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Artesunate Plus can be used in the second and third trimesters of pregnancy. First trimester use should be considered only when benefits clearly outweigh risks and no suitable alternatives exist. Limited data exists for breastfeeding women, though benefits typically outweigh potential risks in malaria-endemic areas.

Interaction

• May interact with medications affecting heart rhythm
• Potential interactions with certain antiretrovirals
• Reduced effectiveness with certain anticonvulsants
• Possible increased side effects with hepatotoxic medications
• May affect effectiveness of live typhoid vaccine

Precaution

Use with caution in patients with liver or kidney impairment, history of seizures, or blood disorders. Previous adverse reactions to 4-aminoquinolines (like chloroquine) may indicate cross-sensitivity with amodiaquine. Monitor patients with G6PD deficiency. Ensure adequate diagnosis of malaria before treatment when possible.

Important Information

Artesunate Plus does not prevent transmission to others. Continue protective measures against mosquito bites. If vomiting occurs within 30 minutes of dosing, repeat the dose. Follow-up with healthcare provider if symptoms persist after completing treatment. Store below 30°C in original packaging, protected from light and moisture. Keep separate blisters together to ensure proper combination therapy.