Aziemal 20: A Brand of Artemether and Lumefantrine for Malaria

What it is

Aziemal 20 is a brand of artemether and lumefantrine, a combination antimalarial medicine. It is a fixed-dose tablet containing artemether 20 mg and lumefantrine 120 mg. This medicine belongs to a class called artemisinin-based combination therapies (ACTs). It is registered with NAFDAC under number A4-101523 as a tablet.

What it's used for

Aziemal 20 is indicated for the treatment of acute, uncomplicated malaria infections caused by the Plasmodium falciparum parasite in patients 2 months of age and older who weigh at least 5 kg. It has been shown to work in areas where resistance to chloroquine has been reported. It is not approved for severe or complicated malaria, nor for the prevention of malaria.

How it's taken

Aziemal 20 tablets should be taken with food. They can be crushed and mixed with 1 to 2 teaspoons of water just before giving to patients, including children. The typical course lasts 3 days and consists of 6 doses: an initial dose, a second dose 8 hours later, then twice daily (morning and evening) for the next 2 days. The exact number of tablets depends on the patient’s weight and must be determined by a doctor or pharmacist. Always follow the prescriber’s instructions.

Common side effects

In adults, the most common side effects reported in more than 30% of patients include headache, loss of appetite (anorexia), dizziness, weakness (asthenia), and joint pain (arthralgia). Other possible side effects may occur; talk to your healthcare provider if any bother you or persist.

Important cautions

Do not use Aziemal 20 if you are allergic to artemether, lumefantrine, or any of the tablet’s other ingredients. It should not be taken with strong CYP3A4 inducers such as rifampin, carbamazepine, phenytoin, or St. John’s wort because they can reduce the medicine’s effectiveness. Avoid use in patients who have a known prolonged QT interval (a heart rhythm condition), low potassium or magnesium levels, or those taking other drugs that prolong the QT interval. Halofantrine (another antimalarial) should not be taken within one month of Aziemal 20 due to the risk of additive heart effects. Other antimalarials should not be given at the same time unless no other treatment is available. Discuss all your medicines and medical conditions with your doctor before starting this treatment.

Frequently asked questions