Artilum Dry

Artilum Dry Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Artilum Dry is a brand name. Its generic name is Artemether + Lumefantrine.

What is Artilum Dry?

Artilum Dry (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 Artilum Dry

Artilum Dry 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

Artilum Dry 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?

Artilum Dry 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

Artilum Dry is rapidly and almost completely absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract.

Route of Elimination

Artilum Dry is primarily eliminated by the kidneys, although it may also be eliminated through bile or feces.

Dosage

The recommended dose for Artilum Dry is 4 tablets twice daily, with food, for 3 days.

Administration

Artilum Dry should be taken with food for maximum effectiveness.

Side Effects

The most common side effects of Artilum Dry include nausea, abdominal pain, vomiting, and diarrhea. Other side effects may include anorexia, dizziness, headache, drowsiness, rash, pruritus, and insomnia.

Toxicity

The toxicity of Artilum Dry 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 Artilum Dry.

Interaction

Artilum Dry may interact with other medications, including antacids, barbiturates, anticoagulants, penicillins, and phenytoin.

Disease Interaction

Artilum Dry is not recommended for use in patients with severe renal impairment.

Drug Interaction

Artilum Dry may interact with certain drugs, including cimetidine, ranitidine, phenobarbital, and rifabutin.

Food Interactions

Food may decrease the absorption of Artilum Dry. It is best taken with food.

Pregnancy Use

Artilum Dry may be used during pregnancy.

Lactation Use

Artilum Dry 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

Artilum Dry is contraindicated in patients with a known hypersensitivity to any components of the medication.

Use Direction

Artilum Dry should be taken as prescribed by a healthcare provider.

Storage Conditions

Artilum Dry should be stored at room temperature in a cool, dry place.

Volume of Distribution

The volume of distribution of Artilum Dry is estimated to be 0.91 L.

Half-Life

The estimated half-life of Artilum Dry is 11 - 14 hours.

Clearance

The estimated clearance of Artilum Dry is 0.28 L/hr.

Here you find in details version of Artilum Dry

Some Frequently Asked Questions About Artilum Dry

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What is Artilum Dry?

Artilum Dry 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 Artilum Dry work?

Artilum Dry 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 Artilum Dry?

Artilum Dry 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 Artilum Dry?

Artilum Dry 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 Artilum Dry?

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 Artilum Dry?

Yes, some side effects may occur while taking Artilum Dry, 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 Artilum Dry?

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 Artilum Dry?

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 Artilum Dry?

You should always consult your doctor or pharmacist before taking any other medication while taking Artilum Dry. Some medications may interact with this drug, potentially increasing the risk of side effects or reducing its effectiveness.

How long does it take for Artilum Dry to work?

The effects of Artilum Dry start within the first day of treatment. It usually takes one to two days to reach its full effect.

Can Artilum Dry be used to prevent malaria?

Yes, Artilum Dry can be used to prevent malaria in people who live in malaria-endemic areas or are travelling to such areas.

Is Artilum Dry safe for children?

Yes, Artilum Dry 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 Artilum Dry?

Yes, you can take vitamin supplements while taking Artilum Dry. 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 Artilum Dry?

You should avoid eating grapefruits or drinking grapefruit juice while taking Artilum Dry, as this may increase the risk of side effects or reduce the drug's effectiveness.

Can I drink alcohol while taking Artilum Dry?

It is not recommended to drink alcohol while taking Artilum Dry, 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 Artilum Dry if I have kidney disease?

Yes, Artilum Dry can be taken safely by people with kidney disease. However, if you have kidney disease, tell your doctor before starting treatment.

Can I take Artilum Dry while pregnant or breastfeeding?

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it is best to talk to your doctor before taking Artilum Dry. 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 Artilum Dry before or after surgery?

It is best to talk to your doctor before taking Artilum Dry 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 Artilum Dry?

If you experience any unusual symptoms, such as weakness, confusion, vision changes, or difficulty breathing, while taking Artilum Dry, seek medical attention right away. These can be signs of a life-threatening allergic reaction called anaphylaxis.

Does Artilum Dry interact with any foods?

Yes, Artilum Dry 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 Artilum Dry with other anti-malaria drugs?

No, Artilum Dry 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 Artilum Dry if I have liver disease?

Yes, Artilum Dry 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 Artilum Dry?

Artilum Dry 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 Artilum Dry the same as chloroquine?

No, Artilum Dry 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 Artilum Dry.

Can I take Artilum Dry if I'm taking birth control pills?

Yes, Artilum Dry 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 Artilum Dry while breastfeeding?

Yes, you can take Artilum Dry while breastfeeding. However, it is best to talk to your doctor before taking it as it can pass into breast milk.

Is Artilum Dry safe for long-term use?

Yes, Artilum Dry is generally considered safe for long-term use. However, it is best to consult your doctor before extending your course of treatment.

Can Artilum Dry be used to treat other forms of malaria?

Yes, Artilum Dry can be used to treat other forms of malaria, including severe and uncomplicated malaria.

Can Artilum Dry be used to prevent malaria?

Yes, Artilum Dry 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 Artilum Dry?

If you experience any side effects while taking Artilum Dry, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or dizziness, contact your doctor right away. If you experience severe side effects, seek medical attention immediately.

Does Artilum Dry interact with any other medications?

Yes, Artilum Dry 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 Artilum Dry.

What is the appropriate dosage of Artilum Dry?

The recommended dose of Artilum Dry 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 Artilum Dry be used to treat pregnant women with malaria?

Yes, Artilum Dry 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 Artilum Dry if I have an allergy to sulfa drugs?

No, you should not take Artilum Dry 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 Artilum Dry if I am taking other medications?

Yes, you can take Artilum Dry 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 Artilum Dry if I have an irregular heart rate?

Yes, it is generally considered safe to take Artilum Dry 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 Artilum Dry be used for long-term prevention of malaria?

Yes, Artilum Dry 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 Artilum Dry be taken with food or a drink?

Yes, Artilum Dry 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.