Laritin Tablet 20mg/120mg (Dispersible) x18

Laritin Tablet 20mg/120mg is a dispersible antimalarial medication containing artemether (20mg) and lumefantrine (120mg). This combination therapy effectively treats acute uncomplicated malaria in children and adolescents, with a formulation designed to dissolve easily in water for improved administration.

Uses

Laritin Dispersible Tablet treats acute uncomplicated malaria caused by Plasmodium species, particularly in children and adolescents. It’s effective against drug-resistant strains and provides rapid relief from malaria symptoms. The dispersible format makes it particularly suitable for pediatric patients aged 11-16 years.

Benefits

• Provides rapid clearance of malaria parasites
• Easy-to-administer dispersible formulation
• Effective against resistant malaria strains
• Reduces fever and malaria symptoms quickly
• Well-tolerated by pediatric patients
• Demonstrates high cure rates
• Convenient dosing schedule
• Dispersible tablets improve compliance
• Reduces risk of severe malaria complications

How It Works

Artemether rapidly reduces parasite burden by generating free radicals toxic to the malaria parasite. Lumefantrine eliminates remaining parasites, preventing recrudescence. This complementary action ensures effective parasite clearance and symptom relief while reducing the risk of developing resistance.

Dosage

Disperse tablets in a small amount of water before administration. Take with food or milk to enhance absorption. Evening dose should be given 8-12 hours after morning dose.

Duration of Action

Laritin begins working within hours of administration. Fever typically subsides within 24-48 hours, and parasites are usually cleared within 3 days. The combination provides protection against immediate recurrence for approximately 2 weeks after completion of treatment.

Side Effects

Most children tolerate Laritin well. Common side effects include mild headache, dizziness, decreased appetite, and abdominal pain. Less frequent effects include cough, weakness, or joint pain. These typically resolve without intervention as treatment progresses.

Warning

Complete the full 3-day course even if symptoms improve quickly. Take with food to maximize absorption. If vomiting occurs within 1 hour of administration, repeat the dose. Seek medical attention for severe vomiting, unusual tiredness, or convulsions. Not recommended for children with severe malaria requiring parenteral treatment.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Not applicable for the target age group (11-16 years). For adolescent girls who may be pregnant, Laritin can generally be used in all trimesters when benefits outweigh risks, as untreated malaria presents significant dangers to both mother and fetus.

Interaction

• Effectiveness may be reduced by certain anticonvulsants
• Potential interactions with medications that affect heart rhythm
• May interact with some antibiotics and antifungals
• Grapefruit juice should be avoided during treatment
• Possible reduced effectiveness with some antiretrovirals

Precaution

Use with caution in patients with known cardiac conditions or family history of congenital QT prolongation. Monitor patients with liver impairment. Ensure adequate food intake with each dose to improve absorption. Avoid in children with known hypersensitivity to artemether or lumefantrine.

Important Information

Laritin Tablet does not prevent transmission of malaria. Continue using protective measures against mosquito bites. If unable to swallow dispersed medication, seek medical advice for alternative formulations. Store below 30°C in original packaging, protected from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of young children.