Artesunate + Mefloquine

Uses

Artesunate and Mefloquine are used in the treatment of malaria.

How it Works

How Artesunate and Mefloquine work Artesunate and Mefloquine is a combination of two antiparasitic medicines that treat malaria. These medicines work by increasing the levels of heme in the blood, a substance toxic to the malarial parasite. This action kills the parasite and prevents the infection from spreading.

Side Effects

Common side effects of Artesunate and Mefloquine include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, headache, sleepiness, insomnia (difficulty sleeping), decreased white blood cell count (lymphocytes), reduced reticulocyte count, abdominal pain, changes in taste, ringing in the ears, cough, diarrhea, vertigo, balance disorders (loss of balance), and abnormal dreams.

Expert Advice

You have been prescribed Artesunate + Mefloquine for the treatment of acute uncomplicated malaria that is resistant to other antimalarial medications, such as chloroquine.
Finish the prescribed course, even if you start to feel better. Stopping it early may cause the infection to return and become harder to treat.
This medication should be taken with food or drinks rich in fat, such as milk.
Possible side effects include fatigue and dizziness. Use caution while driving or engaging in activities that require concentration.
If you vomit within 1 hour of taking the tablets, take another dose.
Inform your doctor if you have kidney, liver, or heart disease.
Tips to reduce the chance of being bitten by mosquitoes:

Wear light-coloured and covered clothing when you are outside after sunset.
Use insect repellent creams or sprays on exposed areas of your body.
Spray to eliminate any mosquitoes that may have entered rooms despite screening.