From the Guidelines
The dose of Falcigo (Artesunate) for the treatment of complicated malaria is 2.4 mg/kg IV at 0,12, and 24 hours, then continue with 2.4 mg/kg daily for 7 days. This dosing regimen is based on the most recent and highest quality study available, which prioritizes the treatment of complicated malaria with Artesunate as the first-line treatment 1. The study, published in 2024, provides a comprehensive guide for the management of adult patients with malaria in non-endemic settings.
Key points to consider when administering Artesunate include:
- The dose is weight-based, with 2.4 mg/kg administered intravenously at specified intervals.
- Treatment should continue for 7 days, with the option to switch to oral medication if feasible after 48 hours of intravenous treatment.
- Artesunate is the preferred treatment for complicated malaria due to its rapid onset of action and effectiveness in reducing parasite density.
It is essential to note that Artesunate is associated with potential adverse reactions, including haemoglobinuria and post-artesunate delayed haemolysis (PADH) 1. Therefore, close monitoring of patients receiving Artesunate is crucial to ensure prompt identification and management of any adverse effects.
In summary, the recommended dose of Falcigo (Artesunate) for complicated malaria is 2.4 mg/kg IV at 0,12, and 24 hours, then continue with 2.4 mg/kg daily for 7 days, as supported by the most recent and highest quality evidence available 1.
From the Research
Dose of Falcigo (Artesunate)
- The dose of artesunate is not explicitly stated in the provided studies, but its usage in various treatment regimens for malaria is discussed.
- According to 2, intravenous artesunate is the treatment of choice for severe or complicated malaria in adults and children.
- The study 2 does not provide a specific dose for artesunate, but it mentions that intravenous artesunate is unlicensed in the EU and is available in many centers.
- Another study 3 discusses the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of artemether-lumefantrine, but it does not provide information on the dose of artesunate.
- Study 4 mentions that artesunate is used in combination with other antimalarials, but it does not provide a specific dose for artesunate.
- It is essential to consult the prescribing information or a healthcare professional for the recommended dose of artesunate, as it may vary depending on the specific treatment regimen and patient population.
Treatment Regimens
- The studies provide information on various treatment regimens for malaria, including artesunate, artemether-lumefantrine, quinine, and other antimalarials.
- According to 2, uncomplicated P. falciparum malaria should be treated with an artemisinin combination therapy (ACT), and artesunate is the treatment of choice for severe or complicated malaria.
- Study 5 discusses the effectiveness of artemether-lumefantrine in treating uncomplicated P. falciparum malaria, while study 6 compares the efficacy of quinine plus clindamycin with artemether-lumefantrine in treating uncomplicated falciparum malaria in children.
- The studies suggest that the choice of treatment regimen depends on various factors, including the severity of the disease, patient population, and resistance patterns in the region.
Patient Populations
- The studies discuss the treatment of malaria in various patient populations, including adults, children, and pregnant women.
- According to 2, children with uncomplicated malaria should be treated with an ACT, and pregnant women with uncomplicated falciparum malaria should be treated with artemether-lumefantrine in the second and third trimester.
- Study 3 investigates the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of artemether-lumefantrine in young children and pregnant women, and suggests that revised dosing regimens may be necessary to improve drug exposure in these populations.