Amatem Forte is an antimalarial drug that contains a combination of Artemether and Lumefantrine. Being an ACT (Artemisin-based Combination Therapy), it falls within the class of drugs that are strongly recommended by the WHO for the treatment of malaria. It is an oral formulation made available in the form of tablets or softgels, which are a suitable option for those who don’t like swallowing “hard” tablets.
In each pack of Amatem Forte, you’ll find a sachet containing 6 tablets or softgels, which are meant to be taken twice daily over 3 days.
Side Effects of Amatem Forte
Amatem Forte may cause any of the following:
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Diarrhea
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Sleep disorder
- Cough
- Muscle pains
- Joint pains
- Itching
- Rash
- Abdominal pain
- Body weakness
- Palpitations
- Fatigue
- Allergic reaction (rare)
Like most other Artemether and Lumefantrine combination drugs, Amatem Forte is well tolerated by children and adults. And most individuals don’t experience any side effects. Even when side effects are reported, they are usually mild and tolerable.
According to the manufacturer, many of the reported cases of side effects are likely to be related to the underlying malaria or an unsatisfactory response to treatment rather than to Amatem Forte itself.
Amatem Forte Softgels/Tablets: Dosage & Administration
Artemether-Lumefantrine combination drugs are used based on a standard 3 days treatment schedule with a total of 6 doses. Amatem Forte is no exception.
You’re to take one softgel/tablet at the time of the first diagnosis (or suspicion) of malaria and another 8 hours later. On the second and third days, you’re to take one softgel/tablet in the morning and one in the evening. To get the best results, take each dose along with a meal — preferably a high-fat food or drink such as milk.
Note, however, that the dosage is different for children weighing less than 35kg. So, we recommend that you confirm the specific dosage with your doctor before using any Artemether-Lumefantrine combination drug for children.
Amatem Forte: Advice & Warnings
Take Amatem Forte along with a meal to get the best results. High-fat foods such as bread and butter or drinks such as milk are most preferred. If you’ve lost your appetite, try taking some little food, at least.
Amatem Forte, like other Artemeter-Lumenfantrine drugs, is contraindicated during the first trimester of pregnancy. So, if you’re within the first 3 months of your pregnancy, DO NOT take Amatem Forte! Talk to your doctor, instead, to get safe alternatives.
If you are a breastfeeding mother, do not take Amatem Forte until you have talked to your doctor.
After taking Amatem Forte, you should avoid driving or using heavy machinery due to the possibility of dizziness and fatigue.
If you have reacted to any drugs in the past, consult your doctor before taking Amatem Forte.
If you have hypertension or heart-related health issues, never take Amatem Forte until after consulting your doctor.
If you’re presently taking any other drug, talk to your doctor before taking Amatem Forte.
References
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a609024.html
- https:/www.who.int/countries/eth/news/act_drug/en/
- https://www.elbepharma.com/therapy/amatem-forte-softgel-6/
- https://www.drugs.com/dosage/artemether-lumefantrine.html
