Coartem Tablet Uses in Pakistan

Coartem Tablet (Artemether + Lumefantrine) is a prescription antimalarial medicine used in Pakistan. This guide covers all its approved uses, indications, and other important information you should know.

Compiled by the PakVita Editorial Team · AI-assisted drafting with editorial review · Sourced from DRAP, WHO, BNF · Last updated: 2026-07-09

Uses

Quick Answer

Coartem Tablet (Artemether + Lumefantrine) is used to treat uncomplicated Plasmodium falciparum malaria, including chloroquine-resistant strains. It belongs to the artemisinin-based combination therapy (ACT) class and is available on prescription in Pakistan. Always take the full prescribed course as directed by your doctor or pharmacist.

Primary Uses at a Glance

Uncomplicated Plasmodium falciparum malaria

Coartem Tablet is used for uncomplicated Plasmodium falciparum malaria. This is the primary approved indication for artemether plus lumefantrine in Pakistan.

As prescribed by your doctor — complete the full 3-day, 6-dose course.

Chloroquine-resistant falciparum malaria

Coartem Tablet is used for chloroquine-resistant falciparum malaria. Its dual mechanism makes it effective against strains that no longer respond to chloroquine monotherapy.

As prescribed by your doctor — follow the weight-based dosing schedule exactly.

Acute malaria episodes in endemic areas of Pakistan

Coartem Tablet is used for acute malaria episodes in endemic areas of Pakistan. Laboratory confirmation of Plasmodium falciparum is recommended before treatment.

As prescribed by your doctor.

Other Uses

Second-line treatment for severe malaria in settings where IV artesunate is unavailable

Coartem Tablet Uses (Fayde / Kis kaam aati hai)

Coartem Tablet contains Artemether 20mg + Lumefantrine 120mg and belongs to the artemisinin-based combination therapy (ACT) antimalarial group. Below are all the approved uses of Coartem Tablet in Pakistan.

Primary Uses (Mukhya Istemal)

Uncomplicated Plasmodium falciparum malaria
Chloroquine-resistant falciparum malaria
Acute malaria episodes in endemic areas of Pakistan

Who Should Take It (Kin logon ke liye)

Adults and children with laboratory-confirmed or clinically diagnosed uncomplicated P. falciparum malaria
Patients in malaria-endemic areas of Pakistan with suspected chloroquine-resistant infection
Travellers returning from endemic regions with falciparum malaria

When NOT to Use Coartem Tablet (Kab nahi leni chahiye)

If you are allergic to artemether, lumefantrine, or any ingredient
During the first trimester of pregnancy
Patients with cardiac arrhythmias, bradycardia, or congestive heart failure
Concurrent use with other QT-prolonging medicines

Summary

Coartem Tablet is prescribed for uncomplicated falciparum malaria. Always complete the full prescribed course and consult a doctor before starting or stopping this medicine.

The information in this guide is for educational purposes only.

Frequently Asked Questions

For which conditions is Coartem Tablet most effective?

Coartem Tablet is most effective for uncomplicated Plasmodium falciparum malaria, including chloroquine-resistant strains. Always take it for the condition your doctor has prescribed it for and complete the full course.

Can Coartem Tablet be taken without a doctor's prescription?

Coartem Tablet is a prescription medicine. Do not take it without a doctor's advice. Malaria diagnosis should be laboratory-confirmed before starting treatment.

How long does Coartem Tablet take to show results?

Fever typically begins to resolve within 24 to 48 hours of starting treatment. If fever does not resolve within 72 hours, contact your doctor as this may indicate treatment failure or a resistant infection.

Can Coartem Tablet be taken long-term?

Coartem Tablet is used for short courses only — typically 3 days. It is not used for malaria prevention. For prophylaxis, consult your doctor about appropriate alternatives.

What should I do if Coartem Tablet does not seem to work?

If fever does not resolve after completing the course, do not repeat the course on your own. Contact your doctor immediately — treatment failure requires specialist review and alternative antimalarial therapy.

Sources

DRAP Registered Products Database — Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan
WHO Model List of Essential Medicines, 23rd ed. (2023) — World Health Organization
British National Formulary (BNF) — BMJ Group & Pharmaceutical Press

Medical disclaimer

This page is for educational use only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always confirm diagnosis, dose, and interactions with a qualified doctor or pharmacist before starting or changing any medicine.