Artemether
Artemether is an antimalarial medication derived from artemisinin, typically administered in combination with lumefantrine (Coartem) for the treatment of uncomplicated Plasmodium falciparum malaria. It works by generating reactive oxygen species that target and destroy the malaria parasite at multiple stages of its life cycle. This combination therapy is used in both adults and children in malaria-endemic regions worldwide.
Artemether is an antimalarial drug used to treat uncomplicated malaria, often combined with lumefantrine for enhanced efficacy.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- P01BE02
- RxNorm
- 18343
- Generic
- Artemether
- Class
- atc-p01
- Brands
- Coartem
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- tablet
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Dosage and administration
- Usual dose
- 500mg twice daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- every 12 hours
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 250mg twice daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- every 12 hours
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 400mg daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- once daily
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
Overdose information
Special Populations
8 groupspregnancy
first trimesteravoid if possible
avoid use during first trimester unless benefits outweigh risks
regular fetal monitoring
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
pregnancy
second and third trimesteruse only if clearly needed
use only when benefits outweigh potential risks
standard prenatal monitoring
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
lactation
breastfeedingno adjustment needed
small amounts excreted in breast milk; continue breastfeeding as benefits outweigh risks
monitor infant for any adverse effects
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
pediatric_age
infants and childrenweight-based dosing required
dose according to weight; not recommended for infants under 5kg
monitor for efficacy and adverse reactions
renal_impairment
mild to moderateno adjustment needed
no dose adjustment for mild to moderate renal impairment
standard monitoring
renal_impairment
severeuse with caution
use with caution; limited data available
close monitoring for adverse effects
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
hepatic_impairment
mild to moderateuse with caution
use with caution in mild to moderate hepatic impairment
monitor liver function tests
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
geriatric
elderlyno specific adjustment needed
use standard dosing; monitor for comorbidities
standard geriatric monitoring
Statistics and clinical data
Commonly prescribed since
General prescribing information
Drug class
Drug class information
Common uses
Common therapeutic uses
Treatment of acute, uncomplicated malaria infections caused by Plasmodium falciparum, including cases resistant to other antimalarial agents. The fixed-dose combination with lumefantrine (Coartem) is approved for use in adults and children weighing at least 5 kg.
Artemether is a semisynthetic derivative of artemisinin that acts rapidly against Plasmodium parasites in the blood. It generates reactive oxygen species and free iron that cause damage to parasite membranes and proteins, leading to parasite death. When combined with lumefantrine (which has a different mechanism), the drugs work synergistically to improve cure rates and reduce the risk of resistance development.
Should be taken with food, especially fatty meals, to enhance absorption. Not recommended for patients with severe renal or hepatic impairment. May interact with other medications metabolized by CYP3A4. Complete the full course of treatment even if symptoms improve. Resistance has been reported in some regions.
Contraindications
Conditions and patient states where this medication should be avoided or used with caution.
Do not use (1)
Known allergy to this medication or its components
Use caution (1)
Consult healthcare provider for benefits vs risks assessment
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed July 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy