Dosage of Coartem Dispersible 20/120mg

Coartem Dispersible 20/120mg is a Prescription Only Medicine (POM).

Take as directed by the physician. Dosage is strictly based on the patient's body weight.

The regimen consists of six doses over 60 hours (3 days): Initial Dose, Second Dose (8 hours later), and then two doses daily (morning and evening) on Days 2 and 3.

Weight-Based Dosage Examples (Total 6 Doses):

• 5 kg to < 15 kg: 1 tablet per dose (Total 6 tablets)
• 15 kg to < 25 kg: 2 tablets per dose (Total 12 tablets)
• 25 kg to < 35 kg: 3 tablets per dose (Total 18 tablets)
• 35 kg and above (Adult Dose): 4 tablets per dose (Total 24 tablets)

Proper Administration

• Route: Oral, dispersed in water.
• How to Use: Place the correct number of dispersible tablets into a clean container with a small amount of water (approximately 10 mL). Allow the tablets to fully disperse (takes 1-2 minutes) and swirl gently. Give the mixture to the patient to drink immediately. Rinse the cup with a small amount of water and ensure the patient swallows this too.
• Food Requirement: The dispersed medicine must be immediately followed by food or a fatty drink (milk, infant formula, pudding) to improve absorption.
• Timing: Follow the precise 0-8-24-36-48-60 hour schedule accurately.

Missed Dose Guidance

• If you miss a dose, give the missed dose as soon as you realize it. Do not give a double dose.
• It is crucial to give all six doses to ensure complete parasite clearance.

Contraindications of Coartem Dispersible 20/120mg

Do NOT give Coartem Dispersible 20/120mg if the patient:

• Has a known allergy or hypersensitivity to Artemether, Lumefantrine, or any other component of the dispersible tablet.
• Has severe or complicated malaria (e.g., cerebral malaria, pulmonary oedema, or renal failure).
• Has a known history of QT prolongation (a heart rhythm abnormality) or has disturbances of electrolyte balance (e.g., severe hypokalemia).
• Is currently taking other medicines that are known to prolong the QT interval (e.g., certain anti-arrhythmics or antipsychotics).
• Weighs less than 5 kg or is younger than 2 months of age.

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Warnings

• Pregnancy: Consult your doctor immediately. While it is used in certain circumstances, the benefit-risk profile must be carefully assessed, especially during the first trimester.
• Breastfeeding: Consult your doctor. Both active ingredients can pass into breast milk. A decision must be made by a physician to discontinue breastfeeding or discontinue the medicine.

Side Effects of Coartem Dispersible 20/120mg

Side effects are common, especially gastrointestinal upset due to the high dosage schedule.

• Very Common Side Effects (Expected): Headache, dizziness, sleep disorders, decreased appetite, vomiting, nausea, abdominal pain, cough, asthenia (lack of strength), fatigue, and joint/muscle pain (arthralgia/myalgia).
• Serious but Rare Side Effects (that may require medical attention):
  • Cardiac Problems: Fast, pounding, or irregular heartbeats, or fainting (may indicate QT prolongation).
  • Severe Allergic Reaction: Rash, itching, swelling of the face, or trouble breathing.
  • Worsening Symptoms: If malaria symptoms worsen or persist after treatment, or if the patient develops signs of severe vomiting or loss of appetite.

What to do if side effects occur:

• For very common side effects like vomiting, ensure the patient repeats the dose if vomiting occurs within one hour of administration.
• For any severe symptoms, including signs of heart rhythm problems or severe allergic reactions, stop the medication immediately and seek emergency medical attention.

Precautions and Warnings of Coartem Dispersible 20/120mg

• Food is Critical: The tablets must be taken with food or a fatty drink (e.g., milk, infant formula, pudding, broth, or porridge) to ensure maximum absorption of Lumefantrine. If the patient is unable to eat, administer with water, but systemic exposure may be reduced.
• Complete the Course: It is absolutely essential to take all six doses over the full 60-hour period, even if the patient feels better, to achieve a complete cure and prevent drug resistance.
• Electrolyte/Cardiac Monitoring: Use caution in patients with a history of heart conditions or electrolyte imbalances.
• Vomiting Management: If the patient vomits repeatedly or cannot tolerate food, alternative antimalarial treatment may be necessary; consult a doctor immediately.
• Repeat Doses: Do not administer more than two courses of Coartem for new infections without medical consultation and ECG monitoring.

The active ingredients are Artemether (20 mg) and Lumefantrine (120 mg). It is supplied as a Dispersible Tablet for oral suspension. It is indicated for the treatment of uncomplicated P. falciparum malaria in patients weighing 5 kg and above. It is a Prescription Only Medicine (POM).