Artem Plus (15/90mg) 30ml Dry Suspension

Artemether and Lumefantrine work synergistically to combat malaria. Artemether, a derivative of artemisinin, rapidly reduces the number of parasites in the blood by targeting multiple stages of the parasite's life cycle, particularly the immature forms and gametocytes. It disrupts the parasite's membrane structure and inhibits their growth. Lumefantrine, on the other hand, has a longer half-life and acts by interfering with the parasite's energy metabolism, specifically by inhibiting heme polymerization, which is essential for the parasite's survival. Together, the combination therapy ensures rapid reduction of parasite burden and prevents relapse by eliminating residual parasites, thereby effectively treating malaria infections.

Artemether 15mg, Lumefantrine 90mg

Antimalarial medication.

Suspension

The following are the uses of Artemether 15mg, Lumefantrine 90mg Syrup/Suspension:

• Used for treating uncomplicated Plasmodium falciparum malaria in adults and children
• Used for rapid reduction of malaria parasite counts
• Used for preventing and treating severe malaria-related anemia
• Used for reducing malaria-induced inflammation
• Used for managing malaria in areas with drug-resistant strains
• Used for completing the treatment regimen for malaria, even after symptoms disappear
• Used for preventing malaria relapses and recurrences

Tailoring Treatment for Optimal Health, Prescribed Medication Dosage is:

• Artemether dose • 1 x 15 mg tablet per day for adults, or 0.5 x 15 mg per day for children weighing less than 15 kg or 1 x 7.5 mg per day for children weighing less than 7 kg.
• Lumefantrine dose • 1 x 90 mg tablet per day for adults or 2 x 45 mg tablets per day for children weighing more than 30 kg or 3 x 30 mg tablets per day for children weighing less than 30 kg.

In the case of an overdose of Artemether 15mg and Lumefantrine 90mg syrup/suspension, individuals may experience intensified side effects. Symptoms could include an increased risk of dizziness, headache, and gastrointestinal issues such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. It is crucial to promptly contact a healthcare professional or a poison control center for guidance and support. They will provide specific instructions to manage the overdose and ensure the well-being of the individual.

In the case of a missed dose of Artemether 15mg and Lumefantrine 90mg Syrup/Suspension, it is recommended to take the missed dose as soon as possible on the same day. If it is already close to the time for the next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with the regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one. It is important to maintain a consistent dosing regimen, so if multiple doses are missed, consult your healthcare provider for further guidance.

To administer Artemether 15mg and Lumefantrine 90mg Syrup/Suspension, shake the bottle well, measure the prescribed dose using an oral syringe or measuring cup, and give it to the patient orally, following the dosage instructions provided by the healthcare professional, typically taken twice a day for three consecutive days.

Following are the conditions/situations when Artemether 15mg and Lumefantrine 90mg Syrup/Suspension should not be used:

• Should not be administered to individuals with a known allergy to Artemether, Lumefantrine, or any other components of the medication.
• Contraindicated in patients with a history of prolonged QT interval or cardiac arrhythmias.
• Not suitable for individuals with severe liver impairment or active liver disease.
• Should not be used in patients with severe gastrointestinal disorders or those unable to tolerate oral medication.
• Contraindicated during breastfeeding, as it may be harmful to the infant.
• Not recommended for individuals with a history of seizure disorders.
• Should be avoided in patients with known glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency.
• Not suitable for children under 3 months of age due to the risk of serious side effects.

The side effects of Artemether 15mg and Lumefantrine 90mg Syrup/Suspension may include:

• Nausea and vomiting.
• Diarrhea.
• Loss of appetite.
• Dizziness or vertigo.
• Headache.
• Weakness or fatigue.
• Muscle or joint pain.
• Itching or rash.

Following are the precautions and warnings for Artemether 15mg, Lumefantrine 90mg Syrup/Suspension:

• This medication should not be used in patients with a known allergy to artemether, lumefantrine, or any other ingredients in the syrup.
• Patients with a history of liver or kidney disease should use this medication with caution and under medical supervision as it may require dosage adjustments.
• Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery as this medication can cause dizziness or sleepiness.
• It is important to complete the full course of treatment to ensure the infection is completely cured and to prevent the development of resistance.
• Not recommended for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding unless the potential benefits outweigh the risks; consult your doctor for advice.
• Keep this medication out of reach of children and pets. Store it in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight.
• If you experience any severe or persistent side effects, such as an allergic reaction, difficulty breathing, or unusual bleeding or bruising, seek immediate medical attention.
• Inform your healthcare provider about all other medications you are taking to avoid potential drug interactions.

Following are the drug interactions for Artemether 15mg, Lumefantrine 90mg Syrup/Suspension:

• Concomitant use with efavirenz, nevirapine, or other potent CYP3A4 inducers may reduce the effectiveness of artemether-lumefantrine, requiring close monitoring and potential dose adjustments.
• Rifampicin, a strong CYP3A4 inducer, can significantly decrease lumefantrine levels, reducing its therapeutic effect.
• Anticonvulsants like phenytoin and carbamazepine, which are CYP3A4 inducers, may decrease the efficacy of artemether and lumefantrine.
• Co-administration with certain antiretroviral protease inhibitors (e.g., ritonavir, lopinavir/ritonavir) may increase lumefantrine exposure, requiring caution and monitoring.
• Drugs that prolong the QT interval, such as halofantrine, pimozide, and certain antipsychotics, should be avoided due to potential cardiac risks.
• The efficacy of artemether-lumefantrine may be reduced by St. John's Wort (Hypericum perforatum), a CYP3A4 inducer.
• Lumefantrine may increase plasma concentrations of certain HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors (statins), requiring dosage adjustments of these drugs.

Following are the food interactions for Artemether 15mg, Lumefantrine 90mg Syrup/Suspension:

• This medication should be taken with a high-fat meal or snack, preferably containing milk, to enhance the absorption of Lumefantrine.
• Fat-rich foods like whole milk, cheese, or peanut butter can improve drug absorption.
• Avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice as they may interfere with the metabolism of the medication, leading to increased drug levels in the body.
• Limit caffeine intake as it may reduce the effectiveness of Artemether.
• Avoid alcohol as it may increase the risk of side effects and affect the overall effectiveness of the treatment.
• Avoid eating large amounts of food containing Seville oranges (like marmalade) as it can affect drug metabolism.
• Ensure consistent food intake, especially fatty foods, during the course of medication for optimal absorption.

Artemether 15mg, Lumefantrine 90mg Syrup/Suspension should be stored in a controlled environment, maintaining a cool temperature between 15-25°C (59-77°F) and away from direct sunlight. Keep the syrup in its original container, tightly sealed, to maintain its integrity and prevent contamination. It is crucial to avoid exposing the medication to extreme temperatures, so steer clear of storage near heat sources or in the refrigerator. Always adhere to the expiration date on the packaging, and if the syrup is no longer needed or has expired, proper disposal is essential. Contact your pharmacist or healthcare provider for guidance on safe disposal methods, ensuring that the medication is not flushed or poured down the drain to protect the environment. Additionally, store the medication in a secure location, out of the reach of children, to prevent accidental consumption.

Following are the quick tips for Artemether 15mg, Lumefantrine 90mg Syrup/Suspension:

• Ensure you take the medication as directed by your doctor for the full prescribed duration.
• Administer the correct dose using the measuring cup provided.
• Store the syrup at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture.
• Always check the expiration date before using the medication.
• Avoid missing doses; if you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it's close to your next dose.
• Inform your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms or side effects.
• Do not share this medication with others, even if their symptoms seem similar.

When taking Artemether 15mg and Lumefantrine 90mg, it is important to undergo laboratory tests to ensure that the body is responding well to the medication and to monitor for potential side effects. Specific tests may include a complete blood count to check the number and condition of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. Maintaining these blood cells is crucial as red blood cells deliver oxygen to tissues, white blood cells fight infections, and platelets help clot blood. Additionally, it is important to test the functioning of the liver and kidneys to ensure that these organs responsible for eliminating drugs from the body are working well and are not damaged by the medication's action on them. Monitoring levels of cholesterol and triglycerides is also necessary as Artemether combinations can potentially alter these lipid levels. Periodic assessments of the heart and cardiovascular system, including blood pressure and heart rate, are advised to detect any potential adverse effects of the medication on these organs. Despite the fact that these medications are generally well-tolerated, individuals with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions may be at risk and require close monitoring. Finally, testing for potential allergic and other adverse reactions is essential to ensure the safety of the patient taking the medication. It is important to remember that the doctor will determine exactly which tests are necessary and how often they should be done as this will depend on the patient's age, health condition, and other factors. Frequent tests may be ordered for some patients, especially if they have multiple comorbidities.