Alfiza
Alfiza Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Alfiza is a brand name. Its generic name is Artemether + Lumefantrine.
What is Alfiza?
Alfiza (also known as Coartem or artemether + lumefantrine combination) is a combination medication used to treat malaria. It is a fixed-dose combination of two drugs, artemether (an antimalarial drug) and lumefantrine (a lipophilic allylamine).Uses For Alfiza
Alfiza is used to help treat infected individuals with malaria and to reduce the spread of malaria in areas with a high infection rate. It may also be used to help treat recurrent acute attacks of malaria and lessen the severity of symptoms.Mechanism of Action
Alfiza works by interfering with the DNA of the Plasmodium parasite and blocking its growth. Artemether affects the building of the parasite's cell membrane and lumefantrine stops the spread of the parasites.How Long Does it Take to Work?
Alfiza starts to take effect within 2 days. However, it may take up to 2 weeks to clear the infection and up to 4 weeks for full recovery.Absorption
Alfiza is rapidly and almost completely absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract.Route of Elimination
Alfiza is primarily eliminated by the kidneys, although it may also be eliminated through bile or feces.Dosage
The recommended dose for Alfiza is 4 tablets twice daily, with food, for 3 days.Administration
Alfiza should be taken with food for maximum effectiveness.Side Effects
The most common side effects of Alfiza include nausea, abdominal pain, vomiting, and diarrhea. Other side effects may include anorexia, dizziness, headache, drowsiness, rash, pruritus, and insomnia.Toxicity
The toxicity of Alfiza is low. There have been reports of adverse events related to taking the combination medication, such as nausea, vomiting, and abdominal discomfort.Precaution
Patients should inform their healthcare provider of any history of liver or kidney diseases, allergies, or other medical conditions before taking Alfiza.Interaction
Alfiza may interact with other medications, including antacids, barbiturates, anticoagulants, penicillins, and phenytoin.Disease Interaction
Alfiza is not recommended for use in patients with severe renal impairment.Drug Interaction
Alfiza may interact with certain drugs, including cimetidine, ranitidine, phenobarbital, and rifabutin.Food Interactions
Food may decrease the absorption of Alfiza. It is best taken with food.Pregnancy Use
Alfiza may be used during pregnancy.Lactation Use
Alfiza is not recommended for use in breastfeeding women.Acute Overdose
If an overdose occurs, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of an acute overdose may include nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.Contraindication
Alfiza is contraindicated in patients with a known hypersensitivity to any components of the medication.Use Direction
Alfiza should be taken as prescribed by a healthcare provider.Storage Conditions
Alfiza should be stored at room temperature in a cool, dry place.Volume of Distribution
The volume of distribution of Alfiza is estimated to be 0.91 L.Half-Life
The estimated half-life of Alfiza is 11 - 14 hours.Clearance
The estimated clearance of Alfiza is 0.28 L/hr.Here you find in details version of Alfiza
Some Frequently Asked Questions About Alfiza
.What is Alfiza?
Alfiza is a combination anti-malaria treatment drug. It contains artemether, an antagonist of cholera and lumefantrine, a drug that blocks the malaria parasite.
How does Alfiza work?
Alfiza works by blocking the malaria parasite in two different ways. Artemether interferes with the enzymes of the parasite which in turn limits the ability of the parasite to multiply and spread in the body. Lumefantrine blocks the malaria parasite's ability to process hemoglobin from red blood cells, which further increases the parasite's vulnerability to artemether.
What are the benefits of using Alfiza?
Alfiza has been used effectively to treat and prevent malaria infections, which can be very dangerous. It is fast-acting and can help reduce the risk of death associated with malaria. Additionally, it is up to 94% effective in treating uncomplicated malaria.
Who should take Alfiza?
Alfiza is recommended for adults and children aged three months and older who have uncomplicated malaria. It is also recommended for people living in malaria-endemic areas who need protection against the disease.
What should I do if I miss a dose of Alfiza?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible. If it is within four hours of the next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and take the next one as normal. If it is more than four hours late, take the missed dose immediately and continue with normal dosing afterwards.
Are there any possible side effects of taking Alfiza?
Yes, some side effects may occur while taking Alfiza, including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and head and muscle aches. If any of these side effects become severe or persist, talk to your doctor right away.
What should I do if I experience an allergic reaction to Alfiza?
If you experience any signs of an allergic reaction, such as hives, swelling, dizziness, or difficulty breathing, seek medical attention as soon as possible.
What should I tell my doctor before taking Alfiza?
Tell your doctor about any other medications you are taking, any allergies you have, and any other medical conditions you have. Also tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Can I take other medications while taking Alfiza?
You should always consult your doctor or pharmacist before taking any other medication while taking Alfiza. Some medications may interact with this drug, potentially increasing the risk of side effects or reducing its effectiveness.
How long does it take for Alfiza to work?
The effects of Alfiza start within the first day of treatment. It usually takes one to two days to reach its full effect.
Can Alfiza be used to prevent malaria?
Yes, Alfiza can be used to prevent malaria in people who live in malaria-endemic areas or are travelling to such areas.
Is Alfiza safe for children?
Yes, Alfiza is considered safe for children aged three months or older who have uncomplicated malaria. It is not recommended for children younger than three months.
Can I take vitamin supplements while taking Alfiza?
Yes, you can take vitamin supplements while taking Alfiza. However, it is best to consult your doctor first to check for any possible interactions with the drug.
Are there foods I should avoid while taking Alfiza?
You should avoid eating grapefruits or drinking grapefruit juice while taking Alfiza, as this may increase the risk of side effects or reduce the drug's effectiveness.
Can I drink alcohol while taking Alfiza?
It is not recommended to drink alcohol while taking Alfiza, as it may potentially increase the risk of side effects. If you do drink alcohol, make sure to drink in moderation and consult your doctor if you experience any side effects.
Can I take Alfiza if I have kidney disease?
Yes, Alfiza can be taken safely by people with kidney disease. However, if you have kidney disease, tell your doctor before starting treatment.
Can I take Alfiza while pregnant or breastfeeding?
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it is best to talk to your doctor before taking Alfiza. This drug should be used with caution in pregnant women due to the possible risk of side effects to the unborn child. For nursing mothers, the drug is generally considered safe, however, it is best to talk to your doctor before taking it.
Can I take Alfiza before or after surgery?
It is best to talk to your doctor before taking Alfiza before or after surgery. This drug may increase the risk of bleeding during surgery or interfere with other medications you may be given before surgery.
What should I do if I experience any unusual symptoms while taking Alfiza?
If you experience any unusual symptoms, such as weakness, confusion, vision changes, or difficulty breathing, while taking Alfiza, seek medical attention right away. These can be signs of a life-threatening allergic reaction called anaphylaxis.
Does Alfiza interact with any foods?
Yes, Alfiza may interact with grapefruits and grapefruit juice, which could potentially increase the risk of side effects or reduce the effectiveness of the drug.
Can I take Alfiza with other anti-malaria drugs?
No, Alfiza should not be taken with any other anti-malaria drugs. Taking multiple anti-malaria drugs increases the risk of side effects and reduces the effectiveness of the drug.
Can I take Alfiza if I have liver disease?
Yes, Alfiza can be taken safely by people with liver disease. However, if you have liver disease, tell your doctor before starting treatment.
How often should I take Alfiza?
Alfiza should be taken twice daily for three consecutive days. The doses should be taken 12 hours apart and should be taken with food or a fatty meal to ensure optimal absorption.
Is Alfiza the same as chloroquine?
No, Alfiza is not the same as chloroquine. Chloroquine is an older anti-malarial drug that is not as effective in treating and preventing certain malaria strains as Alfiza.
Can I take Alfiza if I'm taking birth control pills?
Yes, Alfiza can be taken safely with birth control pills. However, it is best to consult your doctor first to check for any possible interactions with the drug.
Can I take Alfiza while breastfeeding?
Yes, you can take Alfiza while breastfeeding. However, it is best to talk to your doctor before taking it as it can pass into breast milk.
Is Alfiza safe for long-term use?
Yes, Alfiza is generally considered safe for long-term use. However, it is best to consult your doctor before extending your course of treatment.
Can Alfiza be used to treat other forms of malaria?
Yes, Alfiza can be used to treat other forms of malaria, including severe and uncomplicated malaria.
Can Alfiza be used to prevent malaria?
Yes, Alfiza can be used to prevent malaria in people who live in malaria-endemic areas or are travelling to such areas.
What should I do if I experience any side effects while taking Alfiza?
If you experience any side effects while taking Alfiza, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or dizziness, contact your doctor right away. If you experience severe side effects, seek medical attention immediately.
Does Alfiza interact with any other medications?
Yes, Alfiza may interact with other medications, such as warfarin, antacids, and antibiotics. It is best to consult your doctor or pharmacist before taking any other medication while taking Alfiza.
What is the appropriate dosage of Alfiza?
The recommended dose of Alfiza is based on the age and weight of the patient. The dose for adults and children aged 15 years or older is 4 tablets taken twice daily for three days. The dose for children aged three months to 14 years is based on the child's weight and should be taken twice daily for three days. Consult your doctor for more information on the correct dosage for you or your child.
Can Alfiza be used to treat pregnant women with malaria?
Yes, Alfiza can be used to treat pregnant women with malaria. However, it should only be used with caution and under the supervision of a doctor, as there is a risk of side effects to the unborn child.
Can I take Alfiza if I have an allergy to sulfa drugs?
No, you should not take Alfiza if you have an allergy to sulfa drugs, as this medication contains a sulfonamide antibiotic. Talk to your doctor about other medications that can be taken safely instead.
Can I take Alfiza if I am taking other medications?
Yes, you can take Alfiza while taking other medications. However, it is best to consult your doctor or pharmacist first to check for any possible interactions with the drug.
Is it safe to take Alfiza if I have an irregular heart rate?
Yes, it is generally considered safe to take Alfiza if you have an irregular heart rate. However, it is best to talk to your doctor before taking the medication, as it may interact with other drugs that can affect the heart rate.
Can Alfiza be used for long-term prevention of malaria?
Yes, Alfiza can be used for long-term prevention of malaria in people who live in malaria-endemic areas or are travelling to such areas. However, it is best to consult your doctor before starting long-term treatment.
Can Alfiza be taken with food or a drink?
Yes, Alfiza can be taken with food or a drink. However, it is best to take it with a fatty meal, such as dairy products, in order to aid in the absorption of the drug.