VHOSPITAL.CLINIC · Antiparasitic Treatment
Artemether-lumefantrine is the WHO-recommended first-line treatment for uncomplicated Plasmodium falciparum malaria, combining artemether's rapid parasite clearance with lumefantrine's prolonged action.
Artemether is rapidly converted to dihydroartemisinin (DHA), which generates free radicals inside Plasmodium merozoites — alkylating haem and parasite proteins, killing parasites within 48 hours.
Adults (>35 kg): 4 tablets twice daily for 3 days (artemether 20 mg / lumefantrine 120 mg). Take with fatty food to maximise absorption. Complete all 6 doses.
This is a general reference. Always follow your physician's prescription and current treatment guidelines.
Artemether's rapid action typically reduces fever and parasite count within 24–48 hours. Patients usually feel significantly better by day 2, though the full 3-day course is essential.
Lumefantrine (the partner drug) requires dietary fat for absorption. Taking the combination with a fatty meal or milk increases bioavailability 16-fold. Without food, treatment may fail.
Artemisinin-based combinations (ACTs) are recommended for malaria in the second and third trimester. For first trimester, quinine plus clindamycin is preferred due to limited safety data for ACTs.
By treating Malaria, Artemether addresses these associated symptoms:
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