ARTEEMAXX

ARTEEMAXX 200mg

 

What is this medicine?

ARTEEMAXX (artesunate) is an antimalarial medication. It is used to treat acute uncomplicated malaria, especially infections caused by Plasmodium falciparum. It belongs to the artemisinin group of drugs, derived from the Artemisia annua plant. It is typically used in combination with other antimalarial drugs to prevent resistance.

---

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• liver disease

• kidney disease

• heart rhythm problems or QT prolongation

• history of anemia or blood disorders

• low levels of potassium or magnesium in the blood

• previous allergic reaction to artesunate or other artemisinin derivatives

• if you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant

• breast-feeding

• if you have taken other antimalarial drugs recently

---

How should I use this medicine?

Take this medicine by mouth with a glass of water. Take your doses at regular intervals as prescribed. Always take with a combination partner drug, such as mefloquine, lumefantrine, or amodiaquine, as advised by your health care provider.

Usual adult dose:
200 mg once daily for 3 days in combination with another antimalarial.

Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Do not stop taking this medicine early, even if you feel better, unless instructed by your doctor. Complete the full course to avoid treatment failure and drug resistance.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine, contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

---

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

---

What may interact with this medicine?

• other antimalarial drugs (e.g., mefloquine, chloroquine, lumefantrine)

• drugs that affect heart rhythm (e.g., quinidine, amiodarone)

• antibiotics like rifampin

• anti-seizure drugs (e.g., phenytoin, carbamazepine, phenobarbital)

• antifungals like ketoconazole

• HIV medicines like ritonavir

• herbal supplements such as St. John’s Wort

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

---

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Visit your doctor or health care professional for regular checks on your progress. Watch for any symptoms of allergic reactions or changes in heart rhythm.

Tell your doctor if your malaria symptoms persist or worsen. This drug is used only in combination therapy, so follow the full treatment plan.

Let your doctor know if you develop dizziness, yellowing of the eyes or skin, dark urine, or other signs of liver issues.

Women should inform their doctor if they wish to become pregnant or think they might be pregnant. Artesunate is usually considered safe in the 2nd and 3rd trimester, but should be used in the 1st trimester only if clearly needed.

Avoid alcohol as it may increase the risk of liver side effects or worsen dizziness.

Do not treat yourself for fever or other infections without your doctor’s advice while on this medicine.

---

What side effects may I notice from this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

• allergic reactions like skin rash or hives, swelling of the face, lips, throat, or tongue

• irregular heartbeat or chest pain

• signs of liver problems (yellowing of skin/eyes, dark urine, pale stools)

• severe dizziness or fainting

• signs of anemia (unusual fatigue, pale skin, shortness of breath)

• fever, chills, or other signs of infection

• nausea and vomiting that is severe or persistent

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor if they continue or are bothersome):

• mild dizziness or headache

• nausea or abdominal discomfort

• tiredness

• mild rash

• temporary changes in liver enzymes or blood counts

This list may not describe all possible side effects.

---

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 20 and 25 degrees C (68 and 77 degrees F). Protect from moisture, heat, and direct light. Keep the tablets in their original packaging until use.

Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.