Details
Artefan 40/240 mg Tablets 6’s
Artefan 40/240 is a fixed-dose combination antimalarial medicine formulated to treat uncomplicated Plasmodium falciparum malaria. Each tablet contains Artemether 40 mg and Lumefantrine 240 mg, the WHO-recommended ACT (Artemisinin-based Combination Therapy) for malaria. It is a frontline treatment across Africa, especially effective in Tanzania, where malaria is highly prevalent.
Forms / Strengths
- Each tablet: Artemether 40 mg + Lumefantrine 240 mg
- Pack size: 6 tablets (3-day full course)
Main Uses (with localized benefits)
- First-line treatment of uncomplicated P. falciparum malaria
- Effective against resistant malaria strains common in sub-Saharan Africa
- Reduces fever, chills, and parasitemia within 1–2 days
Usage Instructions (Itemized with Dosage / Duration)
- Take 1 tablet twice daily (morning and evening) for 3 days.
- Take with food or milk to enhance absorption of lumefantrine.
- Do not skip doses even if symptoms improve early.
- If vomiting occurs within 1 hour, repeat the dose.
- Consult a doctor if fever persists beyond 3 days after completion.
Side Effects
- Headache, dizziness, weakness
- Loss of appetite, nausea, abdominal pain
- Occasional palpitations or skin rash
Interactions
- Avoid co-administration with drugs that prolong QT interval (e.g., erythromycin, quinidine, halofantrine)
- Potential interaction with some antiretrovirals (e.g., ritonavir, efavirenz)
- Do not combine with other antimalarials unless prescribed
Warnings / Precautions (with localized warnings)
- Not for severe or complicated malaria (requires injectable artesunate instead).
- Use with caution in early pregnancy (1st trimester).
- Take with a fatty meal or milk to ensure full absorption.
- Store in a cool, dry place below 30 °C; avoid humidity common in tropical regions.
- Keep out of children’s reach.
Quick Product Facts Table
Item |
Detail |
Active Ingredients |
Artemether 40 mg + Lumefantrine 240 mg |
Dosage Frequency |
Twice daily |
Starting Time |
Within 24 hours symptom relief |
Duration of Use |
3 days (6 tablets total) |
Common Side Effects |
Headache, dizziness, nausea |
Warnings |
Not for severe malaria; avoid QT-prolonging drugs |
Mechanism of Action
Artemether acts rapidly by generating reactive oxygen species that destroy Plasmodium parasites in blood stages. Lumefantrine has a longer half-life, clearing remaining parasites and preventing recurrence. The dual mechanism reduces the risk of resistance and ensures sustained cure.
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