Daicitem Forte 80/480 Softgel Capsules
Daicitem Forte is a combination antimalarial medicine used to treat acute, uncomplicated malaria caused by Plasmodium falciparum in adults and children weighing 5 kg or more (from 2 months of age). It is not for severe malaria or for prevention.
What it is
Daicitem Forte is a fixed-dose combination of two active ingredients: artemether and lumefantrine. It belongs to a class of medicines called antimalarials. It works by killing the malaria parasite in the blood.
What it's used for
It is used for the treatment of acute, uncomplicated malaria infections due to Plasmodium falciparum. It is effective in areas where resistance to older antimalarials like chloroquine has been reported. It is not approved for severe or complicated malaria, nor for preventing malaria.
Common side effects
Common side effects include headache, loss of appetite, dizziness, weakness (asthenia), and joint pain (arthralgia). Other possible side effects include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and sleep disturbances. These are usually mild and go away on their own.
Important cautions
Do not use this medicine if you are allergic to artemether or lumefantrine, or to any of the other ingredients. Avoid use with strong inducers of CYP3A4 such as rifampin, carbamazepine, phenytoin, or St. John's wort as they can reduce its effectiveness. This medicine can affect the heart's electrical activity (QT prolongation). Inform your doctor if you have a heart condition, low potassium or magnesium levels, or are taking other medicines that affect the heart rhythm. Do not take halofantrine (another antimalarial) within one month of using this medicine.
Frequently asked questions
What is Daicitem Forte used for?
Daicitem Forte is used to treat acute, uncomplicated malaria caused by the Plasmodium falciparum parasite. It is not for severe malaria or for preventing malaria.
What are the common side effects of artemether/lumefantrine?
Common side effects include headache, loss of appetite, dizziness, weakness, and joint pain. Nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain may also occur.
Can I buy Daicitem Forte without a prescription in Nigeria?
Yes, Daicitem Forte is classified as an over-the-counter (OTC) medicine in Nigeria. You can order it on Drugstore.ng without a prescription.
How is Daicitem Forte taken?
It is taken with food as a 3-day course: one dose initially, another after 8 hours, then twice daily for the next 2 days. The exact number of capsules per dose depends on your body weight. Follow your healthcare provider's instructions.
What should I avoid while taking Daicitem Forte?
Avoid taking medicines that affect heart rhythm (like halofantrine) or strong CYP3A4 inducers (such as rifampin, carbamazepine, phenytoin, St. John's wort) unless advised by your doctor.
This information is for general guidance only and is not medical advice. Please consult your physician or pharmacist before using any medication.
