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Side Effects of Coartem

Coartem, generically known as artemether and lumefantrine, is a drug used to treat mild cases of malaria. Using Coartem may cause a number of mild to severe side effects based on the particular individual and the dose size.

  1. Identification

    • Coartem is a prescription drug that is able to treat malaria by specifically preventing the malaria causing parasites from metabolizing in the blood stream. Although some medications are capable of preventing malaria, Coartem cannot and should only be used as a treatment. Coartem can be used to treat both children and adults.

    Common Side Effects

    • According to Drugs.com, the use of Coartem may cause the following side effects: mild headache, weakness, nausea, cough, joint and muscle pain, insomnia, vomiting and loss of appetite. If any of these symptoms intensify or persist, seek immediate medical attention as it may be a sign of a more serious problem.

    Serious Side Effects

    • Though Coartem can cause a number of common side effects, users have also experienced several severe and serious side effects including: severe vomiting and diarrhea, severe stomach pain, irregular urination, dizziness and fainting, irregular heartbeat, and worsening symptoms of malaria. These side effects should be treated with immediate attention. Do not hesitate to acquire medical help in the occurrence of any of these side effects.

    Use of Coartem

    • Take Coartem exactly as prescribed by a qualified doctor. Coartem should be taken with food or milk and can be crushed and incorporated with either. If vomiting occurs within 2 hours of taking a dose of the medication, take another dose. According to Drugs.com, the usual dose for Coartem is 6 tablets over a period of 3 days. Never alter the dose or duration of the medication.

    Warning

    • Do not take the medication halofantrine within 30 days of taking Coartem as it can cause life-threatening effects. Avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice as it can harmfully react with the medication. In the case of a missed dose, never take a double dose to compensate.

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