Description

Description

Arceva 40/240mg is a fixed-dose combination oral tablet manufactured by Sami Pharmaceuticals, bringing together Artemether and Lumefantrine to treat malaria infection. Supplied as 8 tablets per pack, this combination is recognized by the World Health Organization as a first-line treatment for uncomplicated malaria caused by Plasmodium falciparum, the most common and potentially serious malaria parasite.

Ingredients

Each tablet contains Artemether 40mg, a fast-acting artemisinin derivative, combined with Lumefantrine 240mg, a longer-acting antimalarial agent, along with standard pharmaceutical excipients supporting the tablet’s formulation.

Dosage Form

Arceva is manufactured as a film-coated oral tablet, packaged 8 tablets per box, meant to be swallowed with water.

Uses

Arceva 40/240mg is used to treat acute, uncomplicated malaria caused by Plasmodium falciparum, including cases that have become resistant to other antimalarial medicines. Artemether works quickly to reduce the parasite count in the bloodstream, while Lumefantrine acts more gradually to clear any remaining parasites and help prevent the infection from returning. Together, this combination supports fast symptom relief alongside more complete parasite elimination.

How to Use

Arceva is typically taken as a full course over 3 days, with dosing based on body weight as determined by your physician; for adults and patients weighing 35kg or more, this generally involves an initial dose followed by a further dose 8 hours later, then twice-daily doses on the following two days, for a total of 6 doses. Tablets should be swallowed with water, ideally taken with fatty food or a milk-based drink shortly after eating, since this significantly improves absorption of the medicine. If vomiting occurs within an hour of taking a dose, contact your doctor, as a repeat dose may be needed. It’s essential to complete the full course exactly as prescribed, even if symptoms improve early, to ensure the infection is fully cleared.

Side Effects

Commonly reported effects include headache, dizziness, fatigue, and loss of appetite. Some patients experience nausea, abdominal pain, or joint and muscle discomfort during treatment. Less commonly, changes in heart rhythm have been associated with this medicine, so caution is needed in patients with a history of heart rhythm disorders or those taking other medicines that affect heart rhythm. Any unusual heartbeat, severe dizziness, or fainting should be reported to a doctor immediately.

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Arceva should be used with particular caution during the first trimester of pregnancy, and only if a doctor determines the benefits outweigh the potential risks, since safety data in early pregnancy is limited. It may be considered during breastfeeding under medical guidance, as small amounts of the medicine can pass into breast milk. Anyone who is pregnant, planning pregnancy, or nursing should consult their doctor before starting treatment.

Storage Instructions

Store Arceva tablets between 15°C and 30°C, away from direct sunlight, heat, and moisture. Keep the tablets in their original packaging until needed, and store them safely out of children’s reach. Do not use tablets beyond their expiry date.

FAQs

Why should Arceva be taken with fatty food?

Fat significantly improves the absorption of Lumefantrine, so taking the tablets with a meal or milk-based drink helps ensure the medicine works as intended.

What happens if I vomit shortly after taking a dose?

If vomiting occurs within an hour of taking Arceva, contact your doctor, as a repeat dose is often necessary to ensure adequate treatment.

Is it important to complete all 6 doses even if I feel better?

Yes, stopping early can leave parasites in the bloodstream, risking a relapse and contributing to drug resistance, so the full 3-day course should always be completed.

Can Arceva be taken with other heart medicines?

Caution is needed, as certain combinations may increase the risk of heart rhythm changes; always inform your doctor of all medicines you are taking.

Disclaimer

Always use this medicine strictly according to your doctor’s instructions and prescribed dosage.