Emal Injection 150mg/2ml (α-β arteether)

Emal Injection 150mg is a powerful antimalarial medication containing α-β arteether, an advanced artemisinin derivative. This injectable formulation is specifically engineered for the treatment of severe and complicated malaria, offering a lifesaving solution when rapid intervention is crucial. Its unique composition ensures swift action against malaria parasites, even in cases resistant to other treatments.

Uses

Emal Injection 150mg is primarily indicated for the treatment of severe and complicated malaria, especially in situations where oral medication is impractical or ineffective. It serves as a critical intervention in malaria-endemic regions and for travelers presenting with acute, life-threatening malarial infections.

Benefits

• Rapid and efficient parasite clearance, often within 24-48 hours
• Highly effective against multidrug-resistant Plasmodium falciparum strains
• Significantly reduces mortality rates in severe and cerebral malaria cases
• Provides fast symptomatic relief, including fever reduction
• Suitable for patients unable to take oral medications due to vomiting or unconsciousness
• Demonstrates efficacy in areas with high antimalarial drug resistance

How It Works

α-β arteether in Emal Injection targets the malaria parasites in the bloodstream with a unique mechanism of action. It interferes with the parasite’s ability to detoxify heme, leading to the accumulation of toxic free radicals within the parasite. This process causes oxidative stress, ultimately resulting in the parasite’s death. The drug’s rapid action helps to quickly reduce the parasite load, potentially averting life-threatening complications.

Dosage

The standard adult dosage is 150mg (2ml) administered intramuscularly once daily for three consecutive days. However, the dosage may be adjusted based on the patient’s body weight, severity of infection, and clinical response. Pediatric dosing is weight-based and should be carefully calculated by a healthcare professional. It’s crucial to complete the full course of treatment as prescribed, even if symptoms improve rapidly.

Side Effects

While generally well-tolerated, common side effects may include injection site pain, transient nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and mild headache. These usually resolve without intervention. Severe side effects, though rare, can include allergic reactions manifesting as skin rashes or difficulty breathing, and neurological symptoms such as ataxia or nystagmus. Patients should be monitored closely and any unusual symptoms reported immediately to the healthcare provider.

Warning

Emal Injection 150mg should only be administered under close medical supervision in a healthcare setting equipped to manage severe malaria and potential complications. It is not recommended for prophylaxis or uncomplicated malaria cases that can be effectively treated with oral medications. Patients with a history of hypersensitivity to artemisinin derivatives should not receive this medication.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

The use of Emal Injection during pregnancy should be carefully evaluated by a healthcare professional, weighing the potential benefits against the risks. It is generally considered safe in the second and third trimesters when the risk of malaria outweighs potential drug risks. For breastfeeding mothers, consult a healthcare provider as limited data is available on excretion in breast milk.

Interaction

• May enhance the QT-prolonging effect of drugs known to prolong the QT interval
• Potential interactions with CYP3A4 inhibitors or inducers, affecting drug metabolism
• Caution advised when used concurrently with other antimalarial drugs
• Possible interaction with anticoagulants, requiring close monitoring of coagulation parameters
• May affect the efficacy of hormonal contraceptives

Important Information

Emal Injection should be used as part of a comprehensive malaria treatment strategy, which may include supportive care and management of complications. Proper diagnosis through blood smear microscopy or rapid diagnostic tests is essential before initiating treatment. Close monitoring of parasitemia levels and clinical response is crucial during treatment. Follow-up with oral antimalarial medication may be necessary to ensure complete parasite clearance and prevent recrudescence.