Artecan 60 mg Injection

Detailed Description — Artecan 60 mg Injection (Artesunate)

Artecan 60 mg Injection is a parenteral antimalarial medication that contains artesunate, a semi-synthetic derivative of artemisinin. It is primarily used for the treatment of severe malaria, including cerebral malaria and malaria cases where oral therapy is not possible due to vomiting, unconsciousness, or critical illness.

Malaria remains a life-threatening disease, particularly when caused by Plasmodium falciparum. In such cases, rapid reduction of parasite load is crucial. Artecan Injection is valued for its fast onset of action, ability to significantly lower parasitemia within hours, and its role as a life-saving first-line therapy in severe malaria.

Artecan is administered by intravenous (IV) or intramuscular (IM) injection and is usually followed by a full course of oral antimalarial medication once the patient is stable.

Composition

Each vial of Artecan 60 mg Injection contains:

• Artesunate 60 mg (as the active ingredient)

It is supplied as a powder for injection and must be reconstituted with the appropriate diluent before administration by a healthcare professional.

How Artecan (Artesunate) Works

Artesunate acts by:

• Producing free radicals inside malaria parasites

• Damaging vital parasite proteins and membranes

• Rapidly killing parasites in red blood cells

This mechanism leads to quick parasite clearance, which is critical in preventing complications and death in severe malaria.

Uses of Artecan 60 mg Injection

Artecan Injection is indicated for:

• Severe falciparum malaria

• Cerebral malaria

• Malaria with complications such as renal failure, jaundice, anemia, or shock

• Malaria in patients unable to take oral medication

• Drug-resistant malaria cases (as per guidelines)

It is recommended by global health authorities as first-line treatment for severe malaria.

Dosage & Administration

• Administered only by trained healthcare professionals

• Given by IV or IM route

• Dose is calculated based on body weight and severity of infection

• Typically given at 0, 12, and 24 hours, then once daily

Once the patient can tolerate oral medication, treatment is completed with a full oral artemisinin-based combination therapy (ACT).

Benefits of Artecan Injection

• Rapid reduction of malaria parasite load

• Life-saving in severe and complicated malaria

• Effective against drug-resistant Plasmodium falciparum

• Suitable for critically ill patients

• Well-established safety and efficacy profile

Possible Side Effects

Artecan is generally well tolerated, especially considering the severity of illness being treated.

Common side effects:

• Mild headache

• Dizziness

• Nausea or vomiting

• Injection site pain or swelling

Less common or rare side effects:

• Allergic reactions

• Temporary changes in liver enzymes

• Delayed hemolytic anemia (rare, monitored post-treatment)

Patients are closely monitored during and after therapy to detect any adverse effects early.

Precautions & Warnings

• For hospital use only

• Must be given under medical supervision

• Monitor blood counts and liver function when required

• Use with caution in patients with known hypersensitivity to artemisinin derivatives

• Follow with complete oral antimalarial therapy to prevent relapse

Artecan should not be used for self-medication.

Use in Pregnancy & Children

• Pregnancy: Artesunate is considered the treatment of choice for severe malaria in pregnancy due to its life-saving benefits

• Children: Safe and effective when dosed appropriately based on body weight

The benefits outweigh risks in severe malaria cases.

Drug Interactions

Artecan has minimal clinically significant drug interactions. However, doctors should be informed of:

• Other antimalarial drugs

• Medications affecting liver function

• Any ongoing critical care medications

Storage Instructions

• Store below 25°C

• Protect from light

• Do not freeze

• Use immediately after reconstitution

• Keep out of reach of children

External Reference

For authoritative information on artesunate in severe malaria, visit:
🔗 https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/WHO-UCN-GMP-2022.01

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is Artecan 60 mg Injection used for?
It is used to treat severe and life-threatening malaria, especially caused by Plasmodium falciparum.

2. Is Artecan the same as artesunate?
Yes. Artecan contains artesunate as its active ingredient.

3. Can Artecan be used for mild malaria?
No. It is reserved for severe cases or when oral treatment is not possible.

4. How quickly does Artecan work?
It begins reducing parasite levels within hours of administration.

5. Is follow-up treatment required after Artecan Injection?
Yes. A full course of oral antimalarial therapy is essential to completely clear the infection.

6. Is Artecan safe in pregnancy?
Yes. Artesunate is recommended for severe malaria in all stages of pregnancy.

7. Can Artecan be given to children?
Yes, when dosed correctly based on body weight and given by healthcare professionals.