Coartem 20/120 Dispersible 6 Tablets
Coartem 20/120 Dispersible is a pediatric antimalarial medication manufactured by Novartis. This artemisinin-based combination therapy (ACT) contains Artemether (20mg) and Lumefantrine (120mg), specifically formulated for infants and young children weighing between 5kg and 15kg.
Why Dispersible Tablets for Babies?
In line with the 2025/2026 NAFDAC directive, Nigeria has transitioned away from multi-dose antimalarial oral suspensions (syrups) to dispersible tablets. Coartem Dispersible is the preferred choice for pediatric malaria treatment because:
- Stability and Safety: Unlike syrups, these tablets are more stable and ensure your child gets the precise dose required.
- Ease of Use: The tablets dissolve rapidly in a small amount of water to create a sweet, strawberry-flavored suspension.
- High Efficacy: It quickly clears malaria parasites from the blood, providing fast relief for your child.
Coartem Dosage for Children (5kg to <15kg)
For children in the 5kg to 15kg weight range, the standard treatment is a 6-tablet course taken over three days.
- Day 1: Give 1 tablet immediately, followed by 1 tablet 8 hours later.
- Day 2: Give 1 tablet in the morning and 1 tablet in the evening.
- Day 3: Give 1 tablet in the morning and 1 tablet in the evening.
Note: Coartem must be taken with milk or a fatty meal to ensure the body absorbs the medicine properly. If your child vomits within 1 hour of taking a dose, repeat the dose and consult a GoMed pharmacist or doctor.
How to Prepare the Dose
- Place the tablet(s) in a small cup or spoon.
- Add about 10ml (2 teaspoons) of clean drinking water.
- Wait about 30 seconds for it to dissolve completely.
- Give the mixture to the child immediately.
If you have any questions about treating malaria in infants, feel free to chat with a GoMed pharmacist for professional advice.