Coartem

Background: In April 2009, the FDA approved Coartem (artemether and lumefantrine, coformulated) for the treatment of uncomplicated falciparum malaria in patients weighing ≥5 kg. Already approved for this indication in numerous other countries, the drug is recommended by the WHO and is widely used in Africa, including regions where malaria parasites have developed resistance to chloroquine. It is not indicated for treatment of severe malaria or for prophylaxis.

Administration: Coartem is taken twice daily, for a total of six doses. Each dose consists of one to four tablets, depending on body weight. To enhance absorption, the drug should be taken with high-fat food or drinks such as milk.

Drug Interactions: Coartem is metabolized by CYP 3A4, a…