What it is used for
- Treatment of severe malaria, including malaria affecting the brain or other organs
- Initial treatment of severe malaria before switching to an oral antimalarial course
How it works
Artesunate is a fast-acting artemisinin medicine that rapidly reduces the number of malaria parasites in the blood, which is critical in severe, life-threatening malaria.
How it is taken
Given by injection into a vein or muscle in a hospital or clinical setting for severe malaria, then usually followed by a full oral antimalarial course once the person can take medicine by mouth. It is administered and monitored by healthcare professionals exactly as the treating team directs.
No doses here on purpose. The right strength and schedule depend on you — only a doctor or pharmacist should set them. Always follow your prescription and the label.
Common side effects
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Temporary changes in blood counts
Serious effects — get help
- Delayed breakdown of red blood cells (a form of anemia) that can appear days to weeks after treatment, causing tiredness, pale skin, dark urine, or breathlessness — seek urgent care
- Signs of a severe allergic reaction such as facial swelling or breathing difficulty — seek emergency care
- Worsening confusion, seizures, or unconsciousness — emergency care
If a reaction is severe — for example trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or collapse — go to the nearest emergency room now or call your local emergency number. Do not wait for an online consultation.
Interactions to watch
- Other medicines that affect heart rhythm
- Other antimalarials given in sequence
- Drugs that affect liver enzymes
Who should take care
- Used and monitored in a healthcare setting because severe malaria is a medical emergency
- Follow-up blood tests may be needed after treatment to check for delayed anemia
- Tell the treating team if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
- Report any history of blood disorders, liver, or kidney problems