Notice: Images are for illustration only and may not reflect the exact product you receive. Brand-name medications may look different depending on their country of origin—Canadian versions, for example, often include a "PR" symbol on the packaging. Rest assured, the medication, dosage, and active ingredients will be exactly as prescribed. Canada Pharmacy Store is committed to your health and safety, and we work only with licensed pharmacies to ensure you receive trusted, high-quality medication every time.
General Medication Fact Sheet for Riamet
| Field | Information |
|---|---|
| Medication Name | Riamet |
| Generic Name | Artemether/Lumefantrine |
| Purpose | Treatment of acute, uncomplicated malaria infections due to Plasmodium falciparum in patients weighing 5 kg or more. |
| Mechanism of Action | Artemether is an endoperoxide antimalarial; lumefantrine inhibits parasitic nucleic acid and protein synthesis. |
| Dosage Forms | Oral tablets |
| Available Strengths | Artemether 20mg / Lumefantrine 120mg |
| Dosage Frequency | A 6-dose regimen over 3 days. Consult a healthcare professional for exact dosage. |
| Common Side Effects | Headache, dizziness, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, muscle aches. |
| Serious Side Effects | Prolongation of the QT interval (irregular heartbeat), allergic reactions (rash, itching, swelling, difficulty breathing), severe dizziness or fainting. |
| Drug Interactions | CYP3A4 inhibitors and inducers, drugs that prolong the QT interval (e.g., certain antiarrhythmics, antipsychotics). |
| Important Notes | Take with food, especially with fat. Consult a doctor if symptoms worsen or do not improve. |
| Storage | Store at room temperature away from moisture and light. |
| Missed Dose | Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose. Consult your healthcare provider for guidance. |
| Alternatives | Quinine, Atovaquone/Proguanil (Malarone), Mefloquine, Chloroquine (for sensitive areas) |
Riamet Alternatives
| Medication | Mechanism of Action | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Quinine | Interferes with parasite’s DNA replication and transcription. | Older medication, often used when other options are not available. More side effects. |
| Atovaquone/Proguanil (Malarone) | Atovaquone disrupts mitochondrial electron transport; proguanil inhibits dihydrofolate reductase. | Generally well-tolerated. Can be used for prophylaxis and treatment. |
| Mefloquine | Uncertain mechanism of action; may disrupt parasite membrane function. | Can cause neuropsychiatric side effects. Use with caution. |
| Chloroquine | Inhibits parasite’s heme polymerase. | Only effective in areas where malaria parasites are still sensitive to chloroquine. |
Riamet Side Effects
| Common Side Effects | Serious Side Effects |
|---|---|
| Headache | Prolongation of the QT interval (irregular heartbeat) |
| Dizziness | Allergic reactions (rash, itching, swelling, difficulty breathing) |
| Loss of appetite | Severe dizziness or fainting |
| Nausea | Seizures |
| Vomiting | Liver problems (rare) |
Riamet Dosage Guide
| Condition | Starting Dose | Maintenance Dose | Administration Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Acute Uncomplicated Malaria (Adults ≥ 35 kg) | 4 tablets initially | 4 tablets 8 hours later, then 4 tablets twice daily (morning and evening) for the following 2 days (total 6 doses) | Take with food, especially with fat. |
| Acute Uncomplicated Malaria (Children 5 kg to <35 kg) | Refer to product label for specific dosing by weight. | Refer to product label for specific dosing by weight (total 6 doses). | Take with food, especially with fat. Follow doctor’s instructions carefully. |
Riamet Price With And Without Insurance
| Purchase Context | Estimated Price |
|---|---|
| With Insurance | $20 |
| Without Insurance (U.S.) | $145 |
| From CPS | $65 |
