Dosage of Givther Plus Tablets

Givther Plus Tablets 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 (Typically age 35 kg):

• Dosage: The number of tablets per dose depends on the exact strength (e.g., if 20/120mg strength, the adult dose is four tablets per dose for a total of 24 tablets in the course). Consult the physician for the exact number of tablets per dose for the prescribed strength.

Proper Administration

• Route: Oral tablet.
• How to Take: Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water. The tablets may be crushed and mixed with a small amount of water for patients unable to swallow, followed immediately by food.
• Food Requirement: The medicine must be immediately followed by food or a fatty drink (e.g., 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 Givther Plus Tablets

Do NOT take Givther Plus Tablets 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).

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Warnings

• Pregnancy: Consult your doctor immediately. While the combination is recommended for use in the second and third trimesters, the benefit-risk profile must be carefully assessed by a physician, especially during the first trimester.
• Breastfeeding: Consult your doctor. Both active ingredients can pass into breast milk. A physician must weigh the risks and benefits before deciding to continue the medication or breastfeeding.

Side Effects of Givther Plus Tablets

Side effects are common, especially gastrointestinal upset due to the required dosing schedule.

• Very Common Side Effects (Expected): Headache, dizziness, loss of appetite, vomiting, nausea, abdominal pain, cough, joint pain (arthralgia), muscle pain (myalgia), and palpitations.
• 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 Givther Plus Tablets

• 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. Taking it without food severely compromises the drug's effectiveness.
• 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.
• Contraceptive Warning: This medication can reduce the effectiveness of hormonal contraceptives (pills, patches, rings). Patients must use a reliable barrier method (e.g., condoms) during treatment and for at least one cycle afterwards.
• Cardiac Risks: Use caution in patients with a history of heart conditions or electrolyte imbalances.
• 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 and Lumefantrine. It is supplied as an oral tablet, typically in a blister pack of 6, 12, or 24 tablets depending on the strength and weight category. It is indicated for the treatment of uncomplicated P. falciparum malaria. It is a Prescription Only Medicine (POM).