Artemether/Lumefantrine

Available by prescription only, artemether/lumefantrine is approved for treating uncomplicated (or mild) malaria. The drug comes in tablet form and is taken twice a day for three days. It is important to take your dosage with food, so the body absorbs as much of the medication as possible. Some of the potential side effects include headaches, dizziness, and vomiting.

What Is Artemether/Lumefantrine?

Artemether/lumefantrine (Coartem®) is a prescription medication licensed to treat uncomplicated (or mild) malaria. It is a combination of two medicines: artemether and lumefantrine.
 
(Click What Is Artemether/Lumefantrine Used For? for more information, including possible off-label uses.)
 

Are There Side Effects?

Just like any medicine, artemether/lumefantrine can cause side effects.
 However, not everyone who takes the drug will experience problems. Most people tolerate it quite well.
 
Common side effects of artemether/lumefantrine include but are not limited to:
 
  • Vomiting (especially in children)
  • Headaches
  • Dizziness
  • Feeling weak
  • Feeling tired
  • Decreased appetite
  • Muscle and joint pain or stiffness
  • Chills
  • Fever.
     
If reactions do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or are treated easily by you or your healthcare provider. Serious side effects are less common.
 
(Click Side Effects of Artemether/Lumefantrine to learn more, including potentially serious side effects that you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Susan Lakey, PharmD, MPH
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD
 
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