Artesunate
Also sold as: Artesun
Prescription neededMalaria medicines
Comes as:InjectionSuppository
Usual adult dose
Dose is set by your doctor and depends on body weight. Given by injection in hospital for severe malaria, followed by a full course of tablets. A rectal form may be given to young children before transfer to hospital.
Your doctor may give you a different dose. Children's doses depend on weight.
Side effects
Common
- dizziness
- nausea
- headache
Serious — get help
Stop taking it and see a doctor straight away if you notice:
- dark urine and pale skin in the weeks after treatment (delayed anaemia)
- severe allergic reaction
Do not take it, or take care, if
- Allergy to artesunate or other artemisinin medicines
Interactions
No important interactions are listed in our database. Still tell your doctor or pharmacist everything you take.