Lumalar-CQ Tablet (Anti-Malaria) x24

Lumalar-CQ Tablet contains a powerful combination of artemether and lumefantrine that works synergistically to combat malaria parasites. This WHO-recommended first-line antimalarial medication provides rapid and effective treatment for Plasmodium falciparum malaria.

Uses

Lumalar-CQ Tablet is primarily used for the treatment of acute uncomplicated malaria caused by Plasmodium falciparum, including multi-drug resistant strains. It can also be effective against mixed infections and some cases of Plasmodium vivax malaria.

Benefits

• Rapid parasite clearance
• High cure rates against resistant malaria strains
• Fixed-dose combination improves compliance
• Reduces risk of treatment failure
• Lower risk of recrudescence
• Well-established safety profile
• Recommended by WHO for malaria treatment
• Shorter treatment duration than many alternatives

How It Works

Lumalar-CQ Tablet works through complementary mechanisms. Artemether rapidly reduces parasite load by interfering with parasite proteins and generating reactive oxygen species. Lumefantrine has a longer half-life and prevents recurrence by disrupting parasite nutrient uptake and detoxification processes.

Duration of Action

Artemether provides rapid action within hours with a half-life of 2-3 hours. Lumefantrine extends protection with its longer half-life of 3-6 days, providing continued parasite elimination after artemether is cleared from the body.

Dosage

Warnings

Take with fatty food or milk to enhance absorption. Complete the full course even if symptoms improve. Treatment failure can occur if doses are missed or if taken without food. Not recommended for severe malaria requiring parenteral treatment or for prophylaxis.

Side Effects

Common side effects include headache, dizziness, fatigue, muscle/joint pain, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, palpitations, sleep disturbances, cough, and temporary alterations in blood counts. Most side effects are mild and resolve after treatment completion.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Lumalar-CQ Tablet can be used during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy. First-trimester use should be based on severity of malaria versus potential risks. The medication passes into breast milk in small amounts but is generally considered compatible with breastfeeding.

Interactions

• QT-prolonging medications (increased cardiac risk)
• Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors/inducers (altered drug levels)
• Antiretroviral drugs (potential decreased efficacy)
• Grapefruit juice (increased drug concentration)
• Hormonal contraceptives (potential reduced effectiveness)
• Anticoagulants (monitoring recommended)
• Certain antibiotics (additive QT prolongation)

Precautions

Take with high-fat meals to maximize absorption. Monitor patients with cardiac conditions due to potential QT interval prolongation. Ensure adequate fluid intake during treatment. Follow up with healthcare provider after treatment course completion to confirm parasite clearance.

Important Information

Lumalar-CQ Tablet should be taken as a complete course of 24 tablets for adults (4 tablets twice daily for 3 days). Partial treatment can lead to resistance development and treatment failure. Seek medical attention if fever persists or returns within 28 days after treatment.