Introduction
Articon is a prescription medication that contains the active ingredients Artemether and Lumefantrine. It is commonly used in the treatment of malaria, a parasitic infection transmitted by mosquitoes. This medication is available in the form of a dry syrup, making it easy to administer to patients.
Uses
Articon is primarily prescribed for the treatment of uncomplicated malaria caused by Plasmodium falciparum, a type of malaria parasite commonly found in certain regions of the world. It is effective in reducing the symptoms of malaria and eliminating the parasite from the body.
Dosage and Administration
The dosage of Articon is determined based on the patient’s age, weight, and the severity of the malaria infection. Follow the instructions provided by your healthcare professional. Generally, the recommended dosage for adults and children is as follows:
- Adults: 4 milliliters (ml) of syrup every 8 hours for a total of 3 days.
- Children: The dosage is based on the weight of the child. The healthcare professional will determine the appropriate dose.
The dry syrup should be reconstituted with clean water before administration. Shake the bottle well before each use to ensure proper mixing. The medication should be taken with food to enhance its absorption.
Mechanism of Action
Artemether and Lumefantrine, the active ingredients in Articon, work together to fight the malaria parasite. Artemether acts quickly to reduce the number of parasites in the body, while Lumefantrine helps to eliminate the remaining parasites. This combination therapy is effective in treating malaria and preventing its recurrence.
Side Effects
Common side effects may include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Stomach pain
- Dizziness
These side effects are usually mild and temporary. However, if you experience any severe or persistent side effects, seek medical attention immediately. Contact your healthcare professional if you develop any signs of an allergic reaction, such as rash, itching, or swelling.
Drug Interactions
Articon may interact with other medications, including:
- Antimalarial medications, such as quinine and chloroquine
- Antidepressants, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)
- Antiepileptic medications, such as phenytoin and carbamazepine
- HIV medications, such as ritonavir and efavirenz
inform your healthcare professional about all the medications you are currently taking, including prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal products, to avoid potential drug interactions.
Precautions
Before starting treatment with Articon, inform your healthcare professional about any existing medical conditions, allergies, or medications you are taking. This medication may not be suitable for individuals with certain conditions, such as:
- Liver disease
- Heart rhythm disorders
- G6PD deficiency (a genetic disorder affecting red blood cells)
Articon should not be taken by pregnant women, as it may harm the developing fetus. If you are breastfeeding, consult with your healthcare professional before using this medication.
Storage
Articon should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep the medication out of the reach of children. Do not use the medication if it has expired or if the syrup has changed color or consistency.
Patient Tips
- Take Articon exactly as prescribed by your healthcare professional. Do not skip doses or stop the medication prematurely, even if you start to feel better.
- complete the full course of treatment to ensure the complete elimination of the malaria parasite.
- If you experience any side effects or have any concerns while taking this medication, do not hesitate to contact your healthcare professional.
- Avoid consuming alcohol while taking Articon, as it may increase the risk of certain side effects.
- If you are traveling to a malaria-endemic area, take appropriate measures to prevent mosquito bites, such as using insect repellents and sleeping under mosquito nets. Articon is not a substitute for preventive measures.
Please note that this description, as well as the other content on our website is for educational purposes only. We do not provide medical advice. For specific medical advices, diagnoses and treatment options you should consult with your doctor.
References
- Artemether and lumefantrine (Drugs.com) [Accessed 25 Jun. 2024] (online) Available at:
- artemether-lumefantrine tablet (RX) [Accessed 28 Jun. 2024] (online) Available at:
- Artemether and Lumefantrine (MedlinePlus) [Accessed 26 Jun. 2024] (online) Available at:
- Esu EB, Effa EE, Opie ON, Meremikwu MM. Artemether for severe malaria. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2019 Jun 18;6(6):CD010678. doi: 10.1002/14651858.CD010678.pub3. [Accessed 0 Jun. 2024] Available at:
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