Description

Description

Arceva 80/480mg is a fixed-dose combination oral tablet manufactured by Sami Pharmaceuticals, bringing together Artemether and Lumefantrine to treat malaria infection. Supplied as 6 tablets per pack, this higher-strength formulation is used according to body weight, offering a WHO-recognized first-line treatment option for uncomplicated malaria caused by Plasmodium falciparum.

Ingredients

Each tablet contains Artemether 80mg, a fast-acting artemisinin derivative, combined with Lumefantrine 480mg, a longer-acting antimalarial agent, along with standard pharmaceutical excipients supporting the tablet’s formulation.

Dosage Form

Arceva 80/480mg is manufactured as a film-coated oral tablet, packaged 6 tablets per box, meant to be swallowed with water.

Uses

Arceva 80/480mg is used to treat acute, uncomplicated malaria caused by Plasmodium falciparum, including infections resistant to other antimalarial medicines. Artemether works rapidly to reduce the parasite count in the bloodstream, while Lumefantrine acts more gradually to eliminate remaining parasites and help prevent the infection from returning. This higher strength is generally used for patients whose body weight requires a larger dose per tablet as part of the overall treatment course.

How to Use

Arceva 80/480mg is typically taken as part of a 3-day treatment course, with the exact regimen determined by your physician based on body weight; dosing generally follows an initial dose, a second dose 8 hours later, and further twice-daily doses over the following two days. 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 required. The full course must be completed 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, which may be somewhat more noticeable at this higher strength. 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 80/480mg 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 80/480mg 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 does Arceva come in different strengths like 40/240mg and 80/480mg?

Dosing for this medicine is based on body weight, so different strengths allow for appropriate treatment across a range of patient weights.

Why should Arceva 80/480mg 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.

Is it important to complete the full treatment course?

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

Can this strength be used for children?

Dosing for children is based on weight and determined by a doctor, who will select the appropriate strength and regimen for the child’s specific needs.

Disclaimer

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