Dosage of Coartem Tablets 80/480mg

Coartem Tablets 80/480mg 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.

Standard Adult/High-Weight Dose (≥ 35 kg):

• Dosage: One 80/480mg tablet per dose (Total course comprises 6 tablets of 80/480mg).

Proper Administration

• Route: Oral tablet.
• How to Take: Swallow the tablet whole. For patients unable to swallow, the tablet may be crushed and mixed with a small amount of water (1-2 teaspoons). The container should be rinsed with more water, and the contents swallowed.
• Food Requirement: The medicine must be immediately followed by food or a fatty drink (milk, yogurt, 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 Tablets 80/480mg

Do NOT take Coartem Tablets 80/480mg if the patient:

• Has a known allergy or hypersensitivity to Artemether, Lumefantrine, or any other component of the 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 35 kg.

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Warnings

• Pregnancy: Consult your doctor immediately. The combination is recommended by the WHO to treat uncomplicated P. falciparum malaria in all trimesters, but the benefit-risk profile must be carefully assessed by a physician.
• Breastfeeding: Consult your doctor. Both active ingredients can pass into breast milk. A decision must be made by a physician whether to discontinue breastfeeding or discontinue the medicine.

Side Effects of Coartem Tablets 80/480mg

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

• Very Common Side Effects (Expected): Headache, dizziness, loss of appetite, vomiting, nausea, abdominal pain, cough, joint pain (arthralgia), muscle pain (myalgia), and palpitations (a very common cardiac side effect).
• 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 inability to eat.

What to do if side effects occur:

• For common side effects like vomiting, ensure the patient repeats the dose if vomiting occurs within one to two hours 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 Tablets 80/480mg

• Food is Critical: The tablets must be taken with food or a fatty drink (e.g., milk, 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.
• Cardiac Risks: Use caution in patients with a history of heart conditions or electrolyte imbalances.
• Hormonal Contraceptives: This medication can reduce the effectiveness of hormonal contraceptives (pills, patches, rings, implants). Patients must use a reliable barrier method (e.g., condoms) during treatment and for at least one cycle afterwards.
• Grapefruit Avoidance: Avoid consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice, as it can increase the concentration of the medicine in the body.

The active ingredients are Artemether (80 mg) and Lumefantrine (480 mg). It is supplied as an oral tablet, typically in a blister pack of 6 tablets. It is indicated for the treatment of uncomplicated P. falciparum malaria in patients weighing 35 kg and above. It is a Prescription Only Medicine (POM).