Artesunate (ar-TES-u-nate)

Treats malaria.

Brand Name(s):

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

How to Use This Medicine:

Injectable

• Your doctor will prescribe your dose and schedule. This medicine is given through a needle placed in a vein. This medicine must be given slowly, so the needle will have to stay in place for 1 to 2 minutes.
• A nurse or other health provider will give you this medicine.
• Your doctor will give you a few doses of this medicine until your condition improves, and then switch you to an oral medicine that works the same way. If you have any questions about this, talk to your doctor.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Some medicines can affect how artesunate works. Tell your doctor if you are taking axitinib, carbamazepine, diclofenac, imatinib, nevirapine, phenytoin, rifampin, ritonavir, or vandetanib.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• It is not safe to take this medicine during pregnancy. It could harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor right away if you become pregnant.
• Tell your doctor if you are breastfeeding, or if you have kidney disease or liver disease.
• This medicine may cause blood problems (including hemolytic anemia). Your doctor will need to check your blood for 4 weeks after treatment with this medicine.
• Your doctor will do lab tests at regular visits to check on the effects of this medicine. Keep all appointments.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
• Agitation, confusion, depression, muscle twitching, seizures
• Change in how much or how often you urinate, dark urine
• Dizziness, headache, nausea
• Rapid weight gain, swelling of the face, ankles, or hands
• Unusual bleeding, bruising, tiredness, or weakness
• Yellow skin or eyes

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088