Artem
Form: Tablet
Strength: 20mg+120mg
Generic Name: Artemether + Lumefantrine
Company: Gaco Pharmaceuticals(G.A Company Ltd)
MRP:৳ 20.0 (Tablet)
Is Antibiotic: No
Indications
Artem is used to treat acute malaria infections caused by Plasmodium falciparum, including drug-resistant strains. Artem is also used in emergency situations for travelers at risk of malaria, especially when they are far from medical help. In such cases, travelers can carry Artem for self-treatment until they can reach medical assistance.
Pharmacology
Artem contains Artemether and Lumefantrine in a 1:6 ratio. Artemether is derived from Artemisinin, and Lumefantrine is a synthetic substance. Both work inside the malaria parasites to stop them from converting toxic substances into harmless ones. Artemether produces reactive metabolites, while Lumefantrine interferes with the process that forms the malaria pigment. Artem is effective against blood-stage malaria but does not affect dormant forms of the parasite. For full eradication, additional treatment may be needed.
Dosage & Administration
Adults and children 35 kg and above: 4 tablets at the initial diagnosis, 4 tablets after 8 hours, and 4 tablets twice daily for the next two days (24 tablets total).
5 to 15 kg: 1 tablet at the initial diagnosis, 1 tablet after 8 hours, and 1 tablet twice daily for the next two days (6 tablets total).
15 to 25 kg: 2 tablets at the initial diagnosis, 2 tablets after 8 hours, and 2 tablets twice daily for the next two days (12 tablets total).
25 to 35 kg: 3 tablets at the initial diagnosis, 3 tablets after 8 hours, and 3 tablets twice daily for the next two days (18 tablets total).
The tablets should be taken with high-fat food or drink to improve absorption. If vomiting occurs within 1 hour, a repeat dose is needed.
Interaction
No significant interactions have been reported.
Contraindications
Artem should not be used by people allergic to any of its ingredients, those with severe malaria, pregnant women in the first trimester, those with a family history of heart problems, and people with certain electrolyte imbalances. Artem also interacts with some drugs that are processed by the CYP2D6 enzyme.
Side Effects
Artem is generally well tolerated with mild to moderate side effects. These may include headache, dizziness, trouble sleeping, muscle spasms, abnormal feeling in the skin, difficulty walking, heart palpitations, cough, stomach pain, loss of appetite, diarrhea, vomiting, itching, rashes, joint pain, fatigue, and weakness.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Artem is not recommended during pregnancy, especially in the first trimester. Breastfeeding mothers should avoid using Artem due to the long elimination time of Lumefantrine. If necessary, breastfeeding should be stopped for at least 28 days after treatment.
Precautions & Warnings
Artem is not recommended for malaria prevention or for treating severe malaria. Artem should also not be used for patients with cerebral malaria or severe malaria complications like pulmonary edema or kidney failure.
Overdose Effects
If overdose is suspected, treatment should focus on relieving symptoms. Monitoring of ECG and blood potassium levels is advised.
Therapeutic Class
Anti-malarial drugs.
Storage Conditions
Store below 30°C, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Similar Brands of Artemether + Lumefantrine (Tablet)
| Brand Name | Form | Strength | Company | MRP (৳) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arexel | Tablet | 20mg+120mg | Jayson Pharmaceuticals Ltd. | 17.12 |
| Lumertam | Tablet | 20mg+120mg | Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd. | 20.13 |