Havax Forte Tablets 80/480mg x6

Havax Forte is an antimalarial combination medication containing artemether and lumefantrine. This artemisinin-based combination therapy (ACT) effectively treats uncomplicated malaria caused by Plasmodium falciparum in both adults and children.

Uses

Havax Forte treats acute uncomplicated malaria by eliminating Plasmodium falciparum parasites from the bloodstream. It resolves associated symptoms including fever, chills, headache, and muscle pain that typically occur with malarial infection.

Benefits

• Rapidly reduces parasitic load in the bloodstream
• Prevents recurrence of malarial symptoms
• Convenient tablet form dosed by body weight
• Offers well-tolerated antiplasmodial therapy
• Facilitates complete elimination of malarial infection
• Effective against many drug-resistant strains
• Recommended by WHO for first-line malaria treatment
• Minimizes risk of severe complications

How It Works

Artemether quickly reduces parasite burden by generating free radicals that damage the parasite membrane. Lumefantrine has a longer half-life and eliminates remaining parasites to prevent recurrence. This dual-action approach ensures effective parasite clearance and reduces relapse risk.

Dosage

Take with high-fat meals or milk to enhance absorption. Complete the full 3-day course even if symptoms improve.

Duration of Action

Havax Forte begins working within hours after administration. Artemether provides rapid action with most parasites cleared within 48 hours. Lumefantrine continues working for approximately 4-6 days after the last dose, protecting against immediate recurrence and providing time for complete recovery.

Side Effects

Most patients tolerate Havax Forte well. Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, diarrhea, dizziness, headache, or weakness. Less common effects include sleep disturbances, palpitations, and cough. Serious side effects like cardiac arrhythmia are rare but contraindicate further use.

Warning

Not suitable for severe malaria requiring intravenous treatment. Not approved for malaria prophylaxis. Ineffective against Plasmodium strains resistant to artemisinin-based therapy. Avoid grapefruit juice and St. John’s wort during treatment. Do not reuse leftover medication without medical consultation.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Havax Forte is generally considered safe during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy. First-trimester use should be evaluated against potential risks. The medication passes into breast milk in small amounts, but benefits typically outweigh risks in malaria-endemic regions.

Interaction

• May increase risk of QT prolongation with certain antiarrhythmics
• Effectiveness reduced by enzyme inducers like carbamazepine
• Potential interactions with antiretroviral medications
• Grapefruit juice may increase drug concentration levels
• Avoid with medications known to prolong QT interval

Precaution

Use with caution in patients with cardiac conditions, liver or kidney impairment, or electrolyte abnormalities. Not recommended for patients with known QT interval prolongation. Proper diagnosis of P. falciparum infection should be confirmed before treatment when possible. Allow adequate recovery time before retreatment.

Important Information

Alert your doctor about any history of QT prolongation or cardiac arrhythmia. Complete the full treatment course even if symptoms improve quickly. Continue using protective measures against mosquito bites during and after treatment. Seek medical attention if symptoms persist after treatment. Store below 30°C in original packaging, protected from light and moisture.