Artesunate 60mg Injection: Complete Guide to Uses, Side Effects, and Safety
Clinical Reference Standards: CDSCO (Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation), Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP) & WHO | Last Updated: September 2026
When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY
- Difficulty breathing or swelling of face, lips, or throat
- Severe abdominal pain or yellowing of eyes/skin
- Chest pain, palpitations, or irregular heartbeat
- Decreased urine output or dark urine
- Fever with chills not improving after treatment
- Unusual bleeding or bruising
- Severe headache with confusion or seizures
If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.
What is arsunex 60mg tablet used for?
Artesunate 60 mg injection is a potent antimalarial medicine used to treat severe malaria. It works by killing the malaria parasites in the blood. It is given by a healthcare professional in a hospital setting.
- Generic Name: Artesunate
- Manufacturer: Hamax Pharmaceuticals
- Form: Allopathy
- Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
- Prescription Required: Yes
🇮🇳 arsunex 60mg tablet के बारे में (Hindi Summary)
उपयोग: यह दवा आर्टेसुनेट 60 मिलीग्राम इंजेक्शन के रूप में उपलब्ध है और गंभीर मलेरिया के इलाज के लिए इस्तेमाल की जाती है। यह मलेरिया परजीवी को मारती है और मरीज की जान बचाती है। यह इंजेक्शन डॉक्टर या नर्स द्वारा अस्पताल में ही दिया जाता है। इसे घर पर खुद से नहीं लगाया जाना चाहिए।
साइड इफेक्ट्स: आम दुष्प्रभावों में मतली, उल्टी, सिरदर्द और पेट दर्द शामिल हैं। कुछ मरीजों को चक्कर आना, थकान या त्वचा पर चकत्ते भी हो सकते हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभाव दुर्लभ हैं, लेकिन एलर्जी, लीवर की सूजन, या दिल की धड़कन में गड़बड़ी हो सकती है। अगर कोई गंभीर लक्षण दिखे तो तुरंत डॉक्टर को बताएं।
सुरक्षा सलाह: यह दवा सिर्फ डॉक्टर की देखरेख में ही दी जानी चाहिए। खुद से इंजेक्शन न लगाएं। अगर आपको आर्टेसुनेट से एलर्जी है तो डॉक्टर को पहले ही बता दें। अपनी सभी बीमारियों और दवाओं के बारे में डॉक्टर को जानकारी दें। गर्भवती महिलाओं में गंभीर मलेरिया के इलाज के लिए यह दवा सुरक्षित मानी जाती है, लेकिन डॉक्टर से सलाह जरूर लें। इलाज के बाद फॉलो-अप कराएं।
💊 arsunex 60mg tablet Uses & Benefits
[{"condition":"Severe malaria","description":"This medicine is used for the treatment of severe malaria caused by Plasmodium falciparum, including cases with complications such as cerebral malaria, severe anemia, and organ dysfunction.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Malaria in patients unable to take oral medication","description":"It is indicated for patients who cannot tolerate oral antimalarials due to vomiting, unconsciousness, or other reasons.","evidence":"Well-established"}]
Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Not established from the available information.","description":"Not established from the available information.","evidence":"Not established from the available information."}]
Primary treatment for: Severe malaria
Also treats: Cerebral malaria, Malaria with severe anemia, Malaria with organ dysfunction
📋 Drug Information
| Generic Name(s) | Artesunate |
| Brand Name | Azunate |
| Manufacturer | Hamax Pharmaceuticals |
| Packaging / Form | Varies by brand (Allopathy) |
| Therapeutic Class | ANTI MALARIALS |
| Action Class | Antimalarial- Artemisinin and derivatives |
| Route of Administration | Parenteral (intravenous or intramuscular injection) |
| Storage | Store at room temperature (15-30°C). Protect from light. Do not freeze. Keep out of reach of children. |
| Shelf Life | 24 months from the date of manufacture. |
| WHO Guideline | The World Health Organization recommends artesunate as the first-line treatment for severe malaria in adults, children, and pregnant women in all trimesters. |
| ICMR Guideline | The Indian Council of Medical Research recommends artesunate for the treatment of severe malaria, in line with WHO guidelines. |
👨⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips
Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians
🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?
Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.
🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)
Pharmacokinetics
How It Works
Artesunate is a derivative of artemisinin, which is activated by heme iron within the malaria parasite. The activated drug generates free radicals that damage parasite proteins and membranes, leading to rapid parasite death. It is effective against the blood stages of the parasite, including ring stages and mature trophozoites.
Mechanism Steps
💡 How to Take arsunex 60mg tablet
Strength: Artesunate 60 mg injection
Dosage Information
| Adult Dosage | The usual adult dose of artesunate for severe malaria is 2.4 mg/kg body weight given intravenously or intramuscularly at 0, 12, and 24 hours, and then once daily until oral therapy can be started. The dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on the severity of the infection, patient's weight, and clinical response. Do not self-administer. |
| Pediatric Dosage | The pediatric dose of artesunate for severe malaria is 2.4 mg/kg body weight per dose, given intravenously or intramuscularly at 0, 12, and 24 hours, and then once daily. Pediatric dosing should be determined by a pediatrician based on the child's weight and clinical condition. |
| Elderly Dosage | Elderly patients may be more susceptible to the side effects of artesunate, particularly cardiac and hepatic effects. Dose adjustment may be necessary based on renal and hepatic function. Consult a doctor. |
| Renal Impairment | No specific dose adjustment is recommended for patients with renal impairment. However, caution is advised, and renal function should be monitored. |
| Hepatic Impairment | No specific dose adjustment is recommended for patients with hepatic impairment. However, caution is advised, and liver function should be monitored. |
| Maximum Daily Dose | The maximum daily dose is not established from the available information. Dosing is based on body weight and clinical response. |
Dosage Timeline
🍽️ Food Timing Guide
⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose
⚠️ Side Effects of arsunex 60mg tablet
✅ Common Side Effects
🚨 Serious Side Effects
⚠️ Rare Side Effects
Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.
🔬 Drug Interactions
| Drug | Severity | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Amiodarone | Major | |
| Warfarin | Moderate | |
| Rifampin | Moderate | |
| Mefloquine | Moderate | |
| Carbamazepine | Moderate | |
| Phenytoin | Moderate | |
| Sotalol | Major | |
| Haloperidol | Major | |
| Antacids | Minor | |
| Paracetamol | Minor |
🚨 Major Interactions
- QT-prolonging drugs (e.g., amiodarone, sotalol, haloperidol)
- Drugs that affect liver enzymes (e.g., rifampin, carbamazepine)
⚡ Moderate Interactions
- Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin)
- Other antimalarials (e.g., mefloquine)
🍷 Alcohol Interaction
Alcohol may increase the risk of liver toxicity and worsen side effects such as dizziness and nausea. It is advisable to avoid alcohol while receiving this medicine.
🔎 Check Your Other Medicines
Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.
🛡️ Safety & Warnings
🚫 Contraindications
["Known hypersensitivity to artesunate or any component of the formulation.","Not for prevention of malaria."]
⚠️ Warnings & Precautions
["Administer only under medical supervision.","Use with caution in patients with liver or kidney impairment.","Monitor for signs of allergic reactions.","Avoid in patients with a history of QT prolongation or taking QT-prolonging drugs.","Not recommended for self-administration."]
🤱 Lactation Safety
It is not known whether artesunate is excreted in human breast milk. However, due to its short half-life and rapid clearance, the amount in breast milk is likely to be minimal. The benefits of treating severe malaria in the mother are likely to outweigh any potential risks to the infant. Consult your doctor.
💊 Overdose Management
Overdose of artesunate may lead to severe side effects such as cardiac arrhythmias, liver toxicity, and bone marrow suppression. Treatment is supportive and symptomatic. There is no specific antidote. In case of overdose, seek immediate medical attention.
⏰ Missed Dose
Since this medicine is administered by a healthcare professional in a hospital setting, missed doses are unlikely. If a dose is missed, it should be given as soon as possible, and the dosing schedule adjusted accordingly. Do not double the dose.
Additional Safety Advice
This medicine must be given only by a qualified healthcare professional. Do not attempt to self-administer. Inform your doctor if you are allergic to artesunate or any other medicines. Before receiving this medicine, tell your doctor about all your medical conditions, especially liver or kidney problems, heart conditions, or blood disorders. Also, inform them about all other medicines you are taking, including prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal products. This medicine may interact with certain drugs, so a thorough medication review is essential. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. This medicine is generally considered safe during pregnancy when used for severe malaria, as the benefits outweigh the risks. However, always consult your doctor. After treatment, follow up with your doctor to ensure the infection has cleared and to monitor for any side effects.
👴 Special Considerations for Elderly
💡 For Patients Above 65
Elderly patients may be more prone to side effects such as dizziness, cardiac arrhythmias, and liver toxicity. Close monitoring is advised.
🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)
If you are planning pregnancy, discuss with your doctor about malaria prevention and treatment options. Artesunate is safe for use during pregnancy if you contract severe malaria.
🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations
If you have recently undergone surgery, inform your surgeon and anesthesiologist about your artesunate treatment. It may affect blood clotting and interact with other medications.
🦷 Dental Procedures
Inform your dentist about your artesunate treatment before any dental procedure. It may increase the risk of bleeding or interact with anesthetics.
💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results
🏋️ Exercise Considerations
Avoid strenuous exercise immediately after receiving artesunate injection, as you may feel dizzy or weak. Gradually resume activities as you recover.
🥗 Diet Recommendations
💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life
You may need to take time off work or school during treatment for severe malaria. Driving and operating machinery should be avoided immediately after injection due to potential dizziness. Recovery time varies but usually takes a few days to weeks.
🛑 When to Stop This Medicine
Do not stop this medicine without your doctor's advice. The full course must be completed to ensure the infection is fully cleared. If you experience severe side effects, consult your doctor immediately.
📅 Long-Term Use Effects
Long-term effects of artesunate are not well established as it is typically used for a short duration. However, repeated or prolonged use may increase the risk of liver toxicity, blood disorders, and cardiac effects. Regular monitoring of liver and kidney function is advised if used for extended periods.
🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches
These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.
Once the patient improves, oral antimalarials may be used to complete the treatment.
Evidence: Well-establishedIn case of allergy or unavailability, other injectable antimalarials like quinine may be considered.
Evidence: Well-established💉 Vaccination Considerations
💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated
There are no known interactions between artesunate and vaccines. However, if you are due for a vaccine, inform your doctor about your current treatment.
📦 Storage Guide
✅ DO
Store at room temperature (15-30°C)
❌ DON'T
Do not refrigerate unless specified
✅ DO
Keep in original container
❌ DON'T
Do not transfer to unmarked containers
✅ DO
Keep away from direct sunlight
❌ DON'T
Do not store in bathroom cabinet
✈️ Traveling with This Medicine
If you are traveling to a malaria-endemic area, take necessary precautions. This medicine is for treatment, not prevention. If you need artesunate injection while traveling, it should be administered by a healthcare professional. Carry a copy of your prescription and medical records. Store the injection as per the recommended conditions. Check with local health authorities regarding malaria prevention and treatment options.
💰 Cost Analysis & Savings
👥 Real Patient Stories
Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.
💬 Questions Patients Often Ask
A: Artesunate injection starts working within hours, reducing fever and parasite count. However, the full course must be completed as prescribed.
A: No, this is an injectable form. Oral therapy may be started once you improve, as per your doctor's advice.
A: Yes, artesunate is considered safe and is recommended for severe malaria in pregnancy. Consult your doctor for personalized advice.
🤔 Common Patient Concerns
🔄 Substitutes for arsunex 60mg tablet
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oxynate-ar 60mg injectionOxytech ₹16.69 78.6% CHEAPER
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Tesam Injection CombipackVarenyam Healthcare Pvt Ltd ₹42.19 45.9% CHEAPER
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Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.
🛑 Myths vs. Facts
- Myth: Artesunate injection can be self-administered at home.
Fact: Artesunate injection must only be given by a healthcare professional in a hospital setting. - Myth: Artesunate is used for malaria prevention.
Fact: Artesunate is used for treatment of severe malaria, not for prevention.
🔄 Alternative Options
Generic Alternatives
- Artesunate injection (generic)
Brand Alternatives
- Azunate 60mg injection