Coartem
Coartem Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Coartem is a brand name. Its generic name is Artemether + Lumefantrine.
What is Coartem?
Coartem (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 Coartem
Coartem 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
Coartem 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?
Coartem 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
Coartem is rapidly and almost completely absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract.Route of Elimination
Coartem is primarily eliminated by the kidneys, although it may also be eliminated through bile or feces.Dosage
The recommended dose for Coartem is 4 tablets twice daily, with food, for 3 days.Administration
Coartem should be taken with food for maximum effectiveness.Side Effects
The most common side effects of Coartem include nausea, abdominal pain, vomiting, and diarrhea. Other side effects may include anorexia, dizziness, headache, drowsiness, rash, pruritus, and insomnia.Toxicity
The toxicity of Coartem 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 Coartem.Interaction
Coartem may interact with other medications, including antacids, barbiturates, anticoagulants, penicillins, and phenytoin.Disease Interaction
Coartem is not recommended for use in patients with severe renal impairment.Drug Interaction
Coartem may interact with certain drugs, including cimetidine, ranitidine, phenobarbital, and rifabutin.Food Interactions
Food may decrease the absorption of Coartem. It is best taken with food.Pregnancy Use
Coartem may be used during pregnancy.Lactation Use
Coartem 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
Coartem is contraindicated in patients with a known hypersensitivity to any components of the medication.Use Direction
Coartem should be taken as prescribed by a healthcare provider.Storage Conditions
Coartem should be stored at room temperature in a cool, dry place.Volume of Distribution
The volume of distribution of Coartem is estimated to be 0.91 L.Half-Life
The estimated half-life of Coartem is 11 - 14 hours.Clearance
The estimated clearance of Coartem is 0.28 L/hr.Here you find in details version of Coartem
Some Frequently Asked Questions About Coartem
.What is Coartem?
Coartem 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 Coartem work?
Coartem 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 Coartem?
Coartem 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 Coartem?
Coartem 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 Coartem?
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 Coartem?
Yes, some side effects may occur while taking Coartem, 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 Coartem?
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 Coartem?
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 Coartem?
You should always consult your doctor or pharmacist before taking any other medication while taking Coartem. Some medications may interact with this drug, potentially increasing the risk of side effects or reducing its effectiveness.
How long does it take for Coartem to work?
The effects of Coartem start within the first day of treatment. It usually takes one to two days to reach its full effect.
Can Coartem be used to prevent malaria?
Yes, Coartem can be used to prevent malaria in people who live in malaria-endemic areas or are travelling to such areas.
Is Coartem safe for children?
Yes, Coartem 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 Coartem?
Yes, you can take vitamin supplements while taking Coartem. 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 Coartem?
You should avoid eating grapefruits or drinking grapefruit juice while taking Coartem, as this may increase the risk of side effects or reduce the drug's effectiveness.
Can I drink alcohol while taking Coartem?
It is not recommended to drink alcohol while taking Coartem, 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 Coartem if I have kidney disease?
Yes, Coartem can be taken safely by people with kidney disease. However, if you have kidney disease, tell your doctor before starting treatment.
Can I take Coartem while pregnant or breastfeeding?
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it is best to talk to your doctor before taking Coartem. 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 Coartem before or after surgery?
It is best to talk to your doctor before taking Coartem 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 Coartem?
If you experience any unusual symptoms, such as weakness, confusion, vision changes, or difficulty breathing, while taking Coartem, seek medical attention right away. These can be signs of a life-threatening allergic reaction called anaphylaxis.
Does Coartem interact with any foods?
Yes, Coartem 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 Coartem with other anti-malaria drugs?
No, Coartem 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 Coartem if I have liver disease?
Yes, Coartem 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 Coartem?
Coartem 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 Coartem the same as chloroquine?
No, Coartem 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 Coartem.
Can I take Coartem if I'm taking birth control pills?
Yes, Coartem 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 Coartem while breastfeeding?
Yes, you can take Coartem while breastfeeding. However, it is best to talk to your doctor before taking it as it can pass into breast milk.
Is Coartem safe for long-term use?
Yes, Coartem is generally considered safe for long-term use. However, it is best to consult your doctor before extending your course of treatment.
Can Coartem be used to treat other forms of malaria?
Yes, Coartem can be used to treat other forms of malaria, including severe and uncomplicated malaria.
Can Coartem be used to prevent malaria?
Yes, Coartem 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 Coartem?
If you experience any side effects while taking Coartem, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or dizziness, contact your doctor right away. If you experience severe side effects, seek medical attention immediately.
Does Coartem interact with any other medications?
Yes, Coartem 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 Coartem.
What is the appropriate dosage of Coartem?
The recommended dose of Coartem 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 Coartem be used to treat pregnant women with malaria?
Yes, Coartem 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 Coartem if I have an allergy to sulfa drugs?
No, you should not take Coartem 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 Coartem if I am taking other medications?
Yes, you can take Coartem 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 Coartem if I have an irregular heart rate?
Yes, it is generally considered safe to take Coartem 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 Coartem be used for long-term prevention of malaria?
Yes, Coartem 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 Coartem be taken with food or a drink?
Yes, Coartem 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.