Why is this medication prescribed?

Coartem is a brand name medication that contains a combination of artemether and lumefantrine. Coartem is primarily prescribed for the treatment of uncomplicated malaria caused by Plasmodium falciparum, particularly in regions where the malaria parasites are known to be resistant to other antimalarial medications.

How should this medicine be used?

Here are general guidelines for its use:

• Dosage: The dosage of Coartem depends on factors like the patient’s age and weight, as well as the severity of the malaria infection. It is usually taken twice daily for 3 days.
• Administration: The tablets should be swallowed whole with water, preferably with food or milk to increase absorption and minimize stomach upset.
• Timing: Each dose should be taken exactly 8 hours apart. It’s important to complete the full course of treatment, even if symptoms improve after a few days.
• Storage: Store Coartem at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep the medication in its original container with the lid tightly closed.
• Compliance: To ensure the effectiveness of the treatment and to reduce the risk of resistance, it’s crucial to take Coartem exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Missing doses or stopping treatment early can lead to the malaria parasites becoming resistant to the medication.
• Consultation: Always consult your healthcare provider or a pharmacist if you have any questions about the use of Coartem, including potential side effects or interactions with other medications you may be taking.

It’s important to note that Coartem is specifically for the treatment of malaria and should not be used to prevent malaria. Prevention of malaria typically involves other medications and measures such as mosquito bite prevention.

Other uses for this medicine

Coartem (artemether-lumefantrine) is primarily used for the treatment of uncomplicated malaria caused by Plasmodium falciparum. There are no widely accepted alternative uses for Coartem approved by regulatory agencies like the FDA or WHO. However, research may explore other potential uses for its components, artemether and lumefantrine, in different medical contexts.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special Precautions for Coartem:

• Allergies: Inform your doctor if you are allergic to artemether, lumefantrine, or any other ingredients in Coartem.
• Medical History: Provide a comprehensive medical history to your doctor, especially regarding liver disease, heart disease (including QT prolongation), and any previous allergic reactions to antimalarial medications.
• Drug Interactions: Coartem may interact with other medications, including certain antibiotics, antifungals, antiretrovirals, and antiepileptic drugs. Inform your doctor about all medications you are currently taking, including over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Coartem should be used with caution during pregnancy, especially during the first trimester. It is important to weigh the potential benefits against the risks to both the mother and fetus. It is not recommended for use during breastfeeding due to the potential for adverse effects on the infant.
• Children: Coartem can be used in children weighing at least 5 kg (approximately 11 pounds). The dosage is based on weight, so it’s crucial to follow your doctor’s instructions precisely.
• Liver Function Monitoring: Periodic monitoring of liver function tests may be necessary during treatment with Coartem, especially in patients with pre-existing liver disease or those taking other medications known to affect the liver.
• Cardiac Monitoring: Coartem can prolong the QT interval in some patients, which may lead to serious heart arrhythmias. Patients with a history of QT prolongation, heart disease, or those taking medications known to prolong the QT interval should be monitored closely.
• Side Effects: Common side effects of Coartem include dizziness, headache, abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. If you experience any severe or persistent side effects, contact your doctor immediately.
• Complete Treatment: It is essential to complete the full course of Coartem as prescribed by your doctor, even if symptoms improve. Stopping treatment prematurely can lead to incomplete clearance of the malaria parasite and potentially contribute to drug resistance.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions carefully regarding the use of Coartem and consult them with any questions or concerns you may have.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary restrictions associated with Coartem. However, taking Coartem with food or milk may help reduce stomach upset and improve absorption. Therefore, it is generally recommended to take Coartem with food or milk unless otherwise directed by your doctor.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you miss a dose of Coartem, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose (within 4 hours or less), skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Coartem (artemether-lumefantrine) can cause various side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Some of the common side effects include:

• Digestive System: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and loss of appetite are common digestive side effects.
• Central Nervous System: Headache, dizziness, and insomnia can occur.
• General: Fatigue, weakness, and fever may also be experienced.
• Cardiovascular: Coartem can occasionally prolong the QT interval on electrocardiograms (ECGs), which could potentially lead to serious cardiac arrhythmias. This is more likely in patients with pre-existing heart conditions or those taking other medications known to prolong the QT interval.
• Allergic Reactions: Rarely, Coartem may cause allergic reactions such as itching, rash, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat. Severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) are very rare but require immediate medical attention.
• Liver Effects: Coartem can sometimes cause abnormalities in liver function tests. Patients with pre-existing liver disease may be at higher risk of liver-related side effects.
• Psychiatric Effects: Mood changes, anxiety, and hallucinations have been reported in some patients, particularly in those with a history of psychiatric disorders.

It’s essential to report any unusual or persistent symptoms to your healthcare provider promptly. Serious side effects are rare, but if you experience symptoms like severe dizziness, irregular heartbeat, or signs of an allergic reaction (such as rash, itching, swelling), seek medical attention immediately.

As with any medication, the benefits of Coartem in treating malaria generally outweigh the potential risks of side effects. Your healthcare provider can provide more detailed information about the specific risks and benefits based on your individual health status.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal of Coartem:

• Storage: Keep Coartem tablets in their original blister packaging at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Do not store in the bathroom or in areas prone to moisture. Keep the medication out of reach of children and pets.
• Disposal: Dispose of Coartem tablets according to local regulations or guidelines. Do not flush them down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Ask your pharmacist or healthcare provider for proper disposal methods.

In case of emergency/overdose

In case of an overdose or emergency situation related to Coartem, contact your local poison control center (1-800-222-1222 in the United States) or seek emergency medical assistance immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include severe nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and possibly more serious cardiac effects like irregular heartbeat. It is important to have the packaging or label information available when seeking emergency help.

What other information should I know?

• Effectiveness: Coartem is effective against malaria caused by Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax, although it is primarily used for the former. It is not intended for use as a preventive medication against malaria.
• Monitoring: During treatment with Coartem, your healthcare provider may periodically monitor your liver function tests and may perform electrocardiograms (ECGs) if there are concerns about cardiac effects.
• Completion of Treatment: Complete the full course of Coartem as prescribed by your healthcare provider, even if you start feeling better after a few days. Skipping doses or stopping treatment prematurely can lead to incomplete clearance of the malaria parasite and potentially contribute to drug resistance.
• Follow-Up: After completing treatment with Coartem, it’s important to follow up with your healthcare provider to ensure the infection has been successfully treated and to address any lingering symptoms or concerns.
• Travel Precautions: If you are using Coartem for malaria treatment while traveling, ensure you have enough medication for the duration of your trip. Familiarize yourself with additional measures to prevent mosquito bites, as Coartem does not provide protection against malaria infection.
• Consultation: Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist if you have any questions or concerns about Coartem, including its use, side effects, interactions, or any other aspect of your treatment regimen.

By following these guidelines and staying informed about the proper use and precautions of Coartem, you can maximize its effectiveness while minimizing potential risks.