Amatem 20mg/120 mg softgels #12

What is Amatem 20mg/120mg Softgel indicated for?

Amatem is indicated for the treatment of most forms of malaria, including resistant types.

What is the recommended dosage of Amatem for adults and children weighing 35kg and above?

The recommended dosage is four capsules as a single initial dose, followed by another four capsules after 8 hours. Then, four capsules are taken twice daily (morning and evening) for the following two days, for a total of 24 capsules over the three-day treatment course.

Are there any contraindications for using Amatem?

Yes. Amatem is contraindicated in individuals with hypersensitivity to any of its ingredients, patients taking medications metabolized by the cytochrome enzyme CYP2D6 (e.g., flecainide, metoprolol, imipramine, amitriptyline, clomipramine), those with electrolyte imbalances such as hypokalemia, and during the first trimester of pregnancy.

What are the special precautions and warnings associated with Amatem use?

Amatem should not be used during the first trimester of pregnancy. Its safety and efficacy have not been established for the treatment of severe malaria. Caution should be exercised during the second and third trimesters, and it should only be used if the potential benefit to the mother outweighs the risk to the fetus.

What are the known drug interactions with Amatem?

Amatem can interact with other antimalarials, CYP450 3A4 inhibitors, protease inhibitors, and antiretroviral drugs.

Can Amatem be used during pregnancy and lactation?

Amatem is contraindicated during the first trimester of pregnancy. During the second and third trimesters, it should only be considered if the benefit to the mother outweighs the risk to the fetus. Women taking Amatem should not breastfeed during treatment and for at least one week after the last dose.

What is the composition of each Amatem softgel?

Each softgel contains 20mg of Artemether and 120mg of Lumefantrine, along with excipients and approved color in the capsule shell.

How should Amatem be stored?

Amatem should be stored below 25°C in a cool, dry place and protected from light.

What should be done in case of an Amatem overdose?

Symptomatic and supportive therapy should be administered, including ECG and blood potassium monitoring.

What is the mechanism of action of Amatem?

Amatem is an artemisinin-based combination therapy (ACT) combining artemether and lumefantrine.

What are the pharmacokinetics of Amatem?

Artemether is absorbed rapidly, reaching peak plasma concentrations about 2 hours after dosing. Lumefantrine absorption begins after a lag time of up to 2 hours, with peak concentrations reached 6-8 hours after administration. Both drugs are highly protein-bound. Artemether is cleared quickly with a half-life of about 2 hours, while lumefantrine has a longer half-life of 3-6 days. No specific pharmacokinetic studies have been performed in patients older than 65 years.

What is the presentation of Amatem?

Amatem Softgel is available in blister packs of 12, 18, and 24 soft gelatin capsules. This specific product contains 12 softgels.

What is a specific warning regarding administration of Amatem?

The medicine is only for children/patients who can swallow the soft gelatin capsules.