Arthemed Tablets 80/480mg ACT x6

Arthemed Tablets 80/480mg is a fixed-dose combination antimalarial medication containing Artemether (80mg) and Lumefantrine (480mg). This dual-action formulation is designed to effectively treat acute, uncomplicated malaria caused by Plasmodium falciparum, including in areas with multi-drug resistant strains.

Uses

Arthemed is primarily used for:

• Treatment of acute, uncomplicated malaria in adults and children
• Management of malaria in areas with known drug resistance
• First-line treatment in many malaria-endemic regions

Benefits

• Highly effective against P. falciparum malaria
• Combination therapy reduces the risk of parasite resistance
• Rapid action in reducing parasite load
• Generally well-tolerated in most patients
• Suitable for both adults and children (weight-based dosing)

How it Works

Artemether rapidly reduces the parasite biomass, while Lumefantrine eliminates residual parasites. This combination attacks the malaria parasites at different stages of their life cycle, ensuring a more complete treatment.

Dosage

Arthemed dosage is based on body weight. A typical adult course consists of 6 doses over 3 days:

• For adults: 1 tablet as a single initial dose, then 1 capsule after 8 hours, and then twice daily (morning and evening) for the following two days  (total course of 6 capsules). For children based on weight. Administer with food/milk to enhance absorption. Complete the full course as prescribed.

Side Effects

Common side effects may include:

• Headache
• Dizziness
• Nausea and vomiting
• Abdominal pain
• Fatigue
• Loss of appetite Serious side effects are rare but may include severe allergic reactions or cardiac effects.

Warning

• Not recommended in the first trimester of pregnancy unless no other suitable treatment is available
• Use with caution in patients with cardiac or hepatic disorders
• Avoid grapefruit juice during treatment as it may increase drug levels

Important Information

Take Arthemed with food or milk to enhance absorption. Complete the full course of treatment even if symptoms improve quickly. If vomiting occurs within 1 hour of taking a dose, repeat the dose. This medication may cause dizziness; use caution when driving or operating machinery.