Artetrine 80 Tablets: Artemether + Lumefantrine Brand for Malaria

What it is

Artetrine 80 is a combination antimalarial medicine. It contains two active ingredients: artemether and lumefantrine. This medicine is used to treat uncomplicated malaria caused by Plasmodium falciparum.

What it's used for

Artetrine 80 is indicated for the treatment of acute, uncomplicated malaria due to P. falciparum in patients aged 2 months and older who weigh at least 5 kg. It is not approved for severe or complicated malaria, nor for the prevention of malaria.

How it's taken

Artetrine 80 should be taken with food to help absorption. The tablets can be crushed and mixed with 1 to 2 teaspoons of water just before taking, which is especially helpful for children. The usual course is 6 doses given over 3 days: an initial dose, a second dose after 8 hours, then a dose twice daily (morning and evening) for the next 2 days. The number of tablets per dose depends on body weight, so a healthcare provider will prescribe the correct amount.

Common side effects

The most common side effects (occurring in more than 30% of adults) include headache, loss of appetite (anorexia), dizziness, weakness (asthenia), and joint pain (arthralgia). These are usually mild. More serious side effects include allergic reactions and changes in heart rhythm (QT prolongation), which your doctor will monitor.

Important cautions

Do not take Artetrine 80 if you are allergic to artemether, lumefantrine, or any of its ingredients. It should not be used with strong CYP3A4 inducers such as rifampin, carbamazepine, phenytoin, or St. John's wort because they can reduce the medicine's effectiveness. Avoid use if you have known QT prolongation, low potassium, or low magnesium, or if you are taking other drugs that prolong the QT interval. Halofantrine, another antimalarial, should not be taken within one month of Artetrine 80. Always tell your doctor about all medicines you are taking.

Frequently asked questions