Artemether + Lumefantrine: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects & Brands | MedexInfo
Artemether + Lumefantrine
Rx Only
Therapeutic ClassAntimalarial (Artemisinin-based Combination Therapy)
Common DoseWeight-based 6-dose regimen over 3 days
PregnancyCategory C
Indications ▼
Uncomplicated malaria caused by Plasmodium falciparum
Effective against chloroquine-resistant strains
Mechanism & Pharmacokinetics ▼
Mechanism: Artemether rapidly kills asexual malaria parasites via generation of free radicals, while lumefantrine clears residual parasites and prevents recrudescence.
Pharmacokinetics: Artemether: rapid absorption, Tmax ~2 hrs, metabolized by CYP3A4; half-life 1–3 hrs. Lumefantrine: Tmax 6–8 hrs, highly lipophilic, metabolized by CYP3A4; half-life ~3–6 days. Both excreted mainly via bile and feces.
Dosage & Administration ▼
| Patient Weight | Dosing Regimen | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| 5–14 kg | 1 tablet per dose | 6 doses over 3 days (0, 8, 24, 36, 48, 60 hrs) |
| 15–24 kg | 2 tablets per dose | 6 doses over 3 days |
| 25–34 kg | 3 tablets per dose | 6 doses over 3 days |
| ≥35 kg | 4 tablets per dose | 6 doses over 3 days |
Take with milk or fatty food to improve absorption of lumefantrine. Complete the full course even if symptoms improve early.
Side Effects ▼
Common: headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, fatigue
Occasional: palpitations, anorexia, myalgia
Rare: QT prolongation, hypersensitivity reactions
Contraindications ▼
Hypersensitivity to artemether, lumefantrine, or related compounds
Severe hepatic impairment
History of cardiac arrhythmias (risk of QT prolongation)
Drug Interaction ▼
CYP3A4 inhibitors/inducers may alter plasma levels of both drugs
Concurrent QT-prolonging drugs may increase risk of arrhythmia
Antacids or drugs reducing absorption may lower lumefantrine bioavailability
Pregnancy & Lactation ▼
Use only if benefits outweigh risks (Category C)
Limited data; generally avoided in first trimester
Compatible with breastfeeding with caution
Clinical / Research Summary ▼
Rapid Parasite Clearance: Artemether ensures fast reduction of parasitemia within first 24–48 hrs.
Prevention of Recrudescence: Lumefantrine’s long half-life clears residual parasites, reducing treatment failure.
WHO-Recommended Therapy: Artemether-lumefantrine is first-line ACT for uncomplicated P. falciparum malaria globally.
Resistance Profile: Effective in regions with chloroquine or sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine resistance; occasional delayed clearance reported in Southeast Asia.
Clinical Outcomes: High cure rates (>95%) in adults and children when full course completed; well tolerated with minimal serious adverse effects.
Patient Counseling Points ▼
Complete all 6 doses even if symptoms improve
Take each dose with food, preferably milk or fatty meal
Monitor for dizziness or fainting; avoid driving if affected
Seek medical attention if fever persists beyond 48–72 hrs
Avoid self-medicating with other antimalarials
Storage & Handling ▼
Store at 15–30°C; protect from moisture and light
Keep out of reach of children
Brand Names (Bangladesh & Global) ▼
Coartem
Artefan
Lumart
Coartem
Riamet
Arti-Lum
Medical Disclaimer: This clinical summary is for informational purposes only. Always follow guidance from a qualified healthcare professional for dosage, interactions, and use.
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