Artemether 20mg + Lumefantrine 120mg

Artemether 20mg + Lumefantrine 120mg — Uses and Benefits

This medicine combination is used to treat malaria caused by the Plasmodium falciparum parasite, which is spread through the bite of an infected mosquito.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Treatment of uncomplicated (mild to moderate) malaria
• Used in adults and children as advised by the doctor based on body weight

HOW IT WORKS

• Artemether acts quickly to reduce the number of malaria parasites in the blood
• Lumefantrine works more slowly and helps clear the remaining parasites, preventing them from coming back
• Together they act on different stages of the parasite's life cycle for more effective treatment

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• Not used for severe or complicated malaria requiring injectable treatment
• Not used to prevent malaria (as a preventive/prophylactic medicine)
• Not effective against other types of fever or infections unrelated to malaria
• Not to be used for malaria caused by other Plasmodium species unless advised by the doctor

How to Use Artemether 20mg + Lumefantrine 120mg

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually as a course over a few days
• Take with food or a milk-based drink, as fat helps the body absorb the medicine properly
• Do not take on an empty stomach unless your doctor tells you to
• Complete the full course even if you start feeling better before finishing it
• Do not increase or skip doses on your own

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Take the missed dose as soon as you remember
• If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue your normal schedule
• Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one
• Contact your doctor if you miss more than one dose

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from direct heat, light, and moisture
• Keep out of reach of children
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack
• Do not store in the bathroom or near a sink

Artemether 20mg + Lumefantrine 120mg — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Headache
• Dizziness
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea and vomiting
• Weakness or tiredness
• Sleep disturbances

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Abdominal pain
• Diarrhoea
• Joint or muscle pain
• Palpitations
• Cough
• Rash or itching

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Irregular heartbeat or chest pain
• Severe dizziness or fainting
• Signs of allergic reaction such as swelling of face, lips, throat, or difficulty breathing
• Yellowing of skin or eyes (jaundice)
• Unusual bleeding or bruising
• Severe skin reaction such as blistering or peeling

This is not a complete list. Report any unusual or persistent symptom to your doctor or pharmacist.

Artemether 20mg + Lumefantrine 120mg — Safety Information and Precautions

This medicine is available only with a doctor's prescription in India.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to artemether, lumefantrine, or any other artemisinin-based medicine
• Have a known serious heart rhythm problem
• Are taking certain medicines that affect heart rhythm, unless cleared by your doctor

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Are pregnant or planning pregnancy, especially in the first trimester
• Are breastfeeding
• Have a heart condition or family history of heart rhythm problems
• Have liver or kidney disease
• Are taking any other medicines, including herbal or over-the-counter products

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Medicines for heart rhythm problems
• Certain antibiotics and antifungal medicines
• Medicines for HIV
• Anti-seizure medicines
• Grapefruit juice, which should be avoided during treatment

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I take this medicine on an empty stomach?

No, it should be taken with food or a fatty drink for better absorption.

How long does treatment usually last?

It is generally taken as a short course over a few days, exactly as prescribed by your doctor.

Can I drink alcohol while taking this medicine?

• It is best to avoid alcohol during treatment as it may increase side effects.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.