Artemet
Generic Name
Artemether
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| artemet 20 mg tablet | ৳ 20.00 | ৳ 80.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Artemether is an antimalarial drug, primarily used for the treatment of uncomplicated Plasmodium falciparum malaria, often in combination with other antimalarial agents to prevent resistance.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Typically 80 mg Artemether (4 tablets) in combination with Lumefantrine 480 mg, administered orally twice daily for 3 days with food.
Elderly
Similar to adults, with caution. No specific dose adjustment generally needed, but monitor for adverse effects.
Renal_impairment
No specific dose adjustment generally needed, but use with caution in severe impairment.
How to Take
Oral administration. Should be taken with food, preferably fatty food, to enhance absorption. If vomiting occurs within 1 hour, repeat the dose.
Mechanism of Action
Artemether is rapidly metabolized to dihydroartemisinin, which acts by forming free radicals within the parasite, damaging proteins and inhibiting parasite growth.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Rapid onset, within hours.
Excretion
Primarily through feces, some renal excretion.
Half life
Approximately 2-3 hours for Artemether, and 1-2 hours for dihydroartemisinin (active metabolite).
Absorption
Rapidly absorbed. Peak plasma concentrations usually reached within 2 hours.
Metabolism
Primarily hepatic, via CYP3A4, to dihydroartemisinin (active metabolite).
Side Effects
Contraindications
- •Hypersensitivity to Artemether or any other artemisinin derivatives
- •Severe hepatic impairment
- •First trimester of pregnancy (relative contraindication, use only if benefits outweigh risks)
Drug Interactions
CYP3A4 inducers
May decrease Artemether levels (e.g., rifampicin, phenytoin).
CYP3A4 inhibitors
May increase Artemether levels (e.g., ketoconazole, ritonavir).
QT-prolonging drugs
Use with caution with drugs that prolong QT interval (e.g., antiarrhythmics, some antipsychotics), especially in combination with Lumefantrine.
Storage
Store below 30°C. Protect from light and moisture.
Overdose
In case of overdose, symptomatic and supportive treatment should be provided. There is no specific antidote.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Generally not recommended in the first trimester unless absolutely necessary due to potential embryo-fetal toxicity. Use in 2nd/3rd trimester only if benefits clearly outweigh risks. Caution during lactation; consult a doctor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
2 years
Availability
Pharmacies, Hospitals
Approval Status
Approved by regulatory authorities (e.g., DGDA)
Patent Status
Off-patent
WHO Essential Medicine
YesAlternative Medicines in Bangladesh
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine
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