Gen-M (60mg) 1 Injection

Artesunate 60mg injection works primarily by interfering with the parasite's mitochondrial membrane, specifically targeting the Plasmodium species responsible for malaria. It achieves this by reacting with intraparasitic ferrous iron (Fe2+) to generate free radicals and reactive oxygen species, leading to parasite membrane damage and subsequent destruction. Artesunate's mechanism of action is particularly effective against the Plasmodium falciparum parasite, which is known for its resistance to other antimalarial drugs. This targeted approach allows Artesunate to rapidly reduce the parasite load in the body, making it a valuable component in the treatment of severe and complicated malaria cases.

Artesunate 60mg

Antimalarial medication

Injection

The following are the uses of Artesunate 60mg injection:

• Used for treating severe malaria, especially in cases of resistance to other antimalarial drugs.
• Used for rapidly reducing high parasite loads in the blood.
• Used for managing life-threatening symptoms, such as severe anemia and respiratory distress.
• Used for emergency treatment in cases of cerebral malaria.
• Used for preventing progression to severe malaria complications.
• Used for improving survival rates in patients with complicated malaria.
• Used for treating malaria in regions with high levels of drug resistance.

In the case of an overdose of Artesunate 60mg injection, it is crucial to act promptly. Symptoms may include an increased risk of severe allergic reactions, such as anaphylaxis, and potential adverse effects on the cardiovascular and central nervous systems. Seek immediate medical assistance and provide healthcare professionals with information regarding the dosage and timing of the overdose. They will determine the most appropriate treatment, which may involve supportive care and monitoring of vital signs.

In the case of a missed dose of Artesunate 60mg injection, it is important to administer the medication as soon as possible. If it is almost 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. If you have missed multiple doses, contact your healthcare provider for guidance on how to proceed and to ensure the treatment remains effective. It is crucial to maintain a consistent dosing schedule for the best treatment outcomes.

To administer the Artesunate 60mg injection, reconstitute the powder with the provided sterile diluent, gently swirl until completely dissolved, and inject the entire contents intramuscularly or intravenously as directed by a healthcare professional, ensuring proper aseptic technique and following the recommended dosage guidelines.

Following are the conditions when Artesunate 60mg injection should not be administered:

• Must not be used in individuals with a known allergy or hypersensitivity to Artesunate or any other artemisinin-based compounds.
• Contraindicated in patients with severe liver impairment or liver failure.
• Not recommended for individuals with severe kidney disease or those on dialysis.
• Should not be used as a standalone treatment for severe malaria; it should be combined with other antimalarial drugs.
• Avoid in patients with a history of severe neurological or psychiatric disorders.
• Not suitable for individuals with a known glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency.

The side effects of Artesunate 60mg injection may include:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Abdominal pain
• Dizziness
• Fatigue and weakness
• Skin rashes or itching
• Low blood pressure (hypotension)
• Allergic reactions (rarely)

Following are the precautions and warnings for Artesunate 60mg Injection:

• This medication should be administered under strict medical supervision due to its potential side effects and the need for proper dosage calculation.
• Artesunate should not be used in patients with a known allergy or hypersensitivity to the drug or its components.
• Patients with severe liver or kidney disease should be closely monitored as the dosage may need adjustment.
• Caution is advised for patients with glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency, as artesunate can cause hemolysis.
• Not recommended for use during pregnancy, especially in the first trimester, unless the potential benefits outweigh the risks.
• Breastfeeding women should consult their doctor as it is unknown if artesunate passes into breast milk.
• Patients should be monitored for signs of anemia, as long-term use may lead to a decrease in red blood cell count.
• Keep out of reach of children and store in a cool, dry place, protected from light.

Following are the drug interactions for Artesunate 60mg injection:

• Artesunate can interact with other antimalarial drugs like chloroquine or mefloquine, potentially reducing the effectiveness of either drug.
• It may decrease the effectiveness of hormonal contraceptives, so additional contraceptive methods are recommended during and after treatment.
• Artesunate can increase the risk of bleeding when used with anticoagulants or antiplatelet drugs.
• The effectiveness of artesunate may be reduced when combined with certain antibiotics, such as rifampicin, due to altered metabolism.
• Drug interactions with antiretroviral medications for HIV/AIDS are possible, affecting the efficacy of both treatments.
• Artesunate might affect the levels of medications metabolized by the liver, including some anti-epileptic drugs and certain antibiotics.
• Caution is advised when combining with herbs that have similar effects on blood sugar, as it may cause hypoglycemia.

Following are the food interactions to consider with Artesunate 60mg injection:

• Artesunate may cause nausea and vomiting; taking it with a light meal or snack might help reduce these side effects.
• Avoid consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice as it can interfere with the metabolism of Artesunate, potentially leading to increased drug levels in the body.
• Alcohol consumption should be avoided as it may increase the risk of liver-related side effects associated with Artesunate.
• There is no specific food restriction, but maintaining a healthy diet is advisable during the course of treatment.
• Avoid fatty or greasy foods as they may affect the absorption of Artesunate.
• Ensure adequate fluid intake to prevent dehydration, especially if experiencing diarrhea as a side effect.
• If experiencing loss of appetite, try eating smaller, more frequent meals to maintain nutrition.

Artesunate 60mg injection should be stored in a controlled environment, specifically a cool and dry place with a temperature range of 20-25°C (68-77°F). Protect the injection from direct sunlight, moisture, and extreme temperatures as these conditions can affect its potency. Always keep the medication in its original packaging, ensuring the seal is intact to maintain sterility. Prioritize storing it in a safe location, away from children's reach to prevent accidental exposure. When disposing of unused or expired Artesunate injection, do not throw it in the trash or pour it down the drain. Contact your healthcare provider or pharmacist for guidance on proper disposal methods to ensure environmental safety. It is crucial to adhere to these storage and disposal guidelines to maintain the integrity of the medication and prevent any potential harm.

Following are the quick tips for Artesunate 60mg injection:

• Administer the injection under medical supervision only.
• Ensure proper dosage calculation based on body weight.
• Inject intravenously as per prescribed duration.
• Artesunate is not a substitute for definitive malaria treatment.
• Monitor for any allergic reactions during and after injection.
• Store the injection as per package instructions, away from direct sunlight.
• Dispose of any unused or expired medication safely.