Coartem is an antimalarial medication used to treat malaria infections caused by Plasmodium falciparum or mixed infections that include Plasmodium falciparum.
Coartem tablets should be taken with food or a fat-rich drink. A six-dose regimen is taken over three days. Dosage depends on body weight and is prescribed by a doctor.
Common side effects include loss of appetite, trouble sleeping, headache, dizziness, fast heartbeat, cough, stomach pain, nausea/vomiting, aching joints and muscles, and tiredness/weakness. Less common side effects include involuntary muscle contractions, diarrhea, itching/rash, sleepiness, heart rhythm disturbances, and allergic reactions.
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Do not take a double dose. Take the next dose at the usual time.
People with allergies to the ingredients, severe malaria affecting the brain or other organs, certain heart conditions, a family history of sudden heart-related death, or those taking certain medications (including some antibiotics, antidepressants, and anti-epileptics) should not take Coartem.
Consult a doctor if pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning pregnancy. Avoid grapefruit juice. Contact a doctor if vomiting occurs within an hour of taking Coartem. Inform your doctor about all other medications being taken. Use effective contraception during and after treatment.
Store in original packaging, below 30°C (86°F), out of sight and reach of children. Do not use after the expiry date.
Active ingredients: artemether and lumefantrine. Inactive ingredients include polysorbate 80, hypromellose, microcrystalline cellulose, silica colloidal anhydrous, croscarmellose sodium, and magnesium stearate.
Yellow, round, flat tablets, scored on one side, with "N/C" on one side and "CG" on the other.
Contact a doctor or go to the nearest emergency unit immediately.