Artemax DS Tablet 40mg / 240mg

About Artemax DS Tablet 40mg / 240mg

Uses

• Treatment of uncomplicated Plasmodium falciparum malaria
• Second line option for chloroquine resistant malaria
• Suitable for adults and children above 5kg as prescribed

Benefits

• Fast and effective clearance of malaria parasites
• Combination formula reduces the chance of resistance
• Well established antimalarial option used across Pakistan
• Available in tablet form suitable for older children and adults

What Experts Say

Artemether and Lumefantrine act on the malaria parasite in two different ways. Artemether reduces the parasite load rapidly after the first dose, while Lumefantrine has a longer half life and continues working in the body to prevent parasites from rebounding once the artemether component clears.

This combination is among the preferred treatments recommended for uncomplicated falciparum malaria because it pairs a fast acting agent with a slower, longer lasting partner drug. Health experts point out that this pairing lowers the odds of resistance developing compared to using a single antimalarial medicine alone.

Doctors typically advise taking this tablet with a meal containing some fat, since absorption of Lumefantrine depends heavily on dietary fat intake. Patients are also reminded that fever can take a day or two to settle even after parasites clear, and any high fever that persists beyond three days needs urgent medical review.

Drug Class

• Antimalarial combination
• Artemisinin derivative plus aryl amino alcohol

Artemax DS Tablet 40mg / 240mg formula

• Artemether + Lumefantrine

Available forms

• Tablet

How to use Artemax DS Tablet 40mg / 240mg?

• Take Artemax DS tablets with fatty food or milk for better absorption.
• Follow the exact dose and timing schedule given by your doctor.
• Complete the entire course even after symptoms improve.
• Do not double the dose if one is missed.

Drug Interactions

• CYP3A4 inducers like Rifampicin: May reduce blood levels and effectiveness of Artemether and Lumefantrine.
• QT prolonging medicines: Increases the risk of abnormal heart rhythm when combined.
• Antifungal drugs like Ketoconazole: Can raise Lumefantrine levels and related side effects.
• Other antimalarials: Avoid combining with Mefloquine or Halofantrine.

Risks and warnings

• Heart Rhythm: Use cautiously in patients with a history of QT prolongation.
• Pregnancy: Avoid during the first trimester unless advised otherwise.
• Liver Disease: Requires monitoring in patients with impaired liver function.
• Incomplete Treatment: Stopping early raises the risk of relapse and resistance.

Artemax DS Tablet Side Effects

• Nausea and vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Headache and dizziness
• Abdominal discomfort
• Sleep disturbances
• Joint and muscle pain

Storage Conditions

• Store below 30°C in a cool, dry place away from light.
• Keep tablets in their original packaging until use.
• Keep out of reach of children.
• Do not use after the expiry date on the pack.