青蒿琥酯的用法用量

Artesunate is an important antimalarial drug independently developed by China, and its standardized use is crucial to the therapeutic effect. The drug is mainly used for the initial treatment of severe malaria in adults and children. It is administered by intravenous injection and has a clear dosage regimen and formulation requirements. Patients should understand in advance the correct usage and dosage of artesunate, contraindications, and medication precautions for special groups.

Usage and dosage of artesunate

The use of artesunate needs to strictly follow the standardized dosage regimen and preparation method. It is recommended to use the drug under the guidance of a doctor. This drug is in injection form and needs to be administered by professional medical staff.

Recommended dosage and administration regimen

For adult and pediatric patients, the standard dose of artesunate is 2.4 mg/kg. The first dose requires intravenous injection at 0, 12 and 24 hours, and then once daily until the patient is able to tolerate oral antimalarial drugs. The method of administration is slow intravenous injection and is completed within 1-2 minutes. Continuous intravenous infusion is prohibited.

Drug Preparation Method

Each vial of 110 mg artesunate powder needs to be dissolved in 11 mL of the included 12 mL sterile phosphate buffer. When preparing, gently swirl for 5-6 minutes until completely dissolved and avoid shaking. The prepared solution should be a colorless and transparent liquid. If particles or discoloration appear, it must be discarded. The prepared solution needs to be used within 1.5 hours.

Strict compliance with the usage and dosage specifications of artesunate is an important prerequisite for reducing adverse reactions.

Contraindications of artesunate

Although artesunate is highly effective, its use is prohibited in certain circumstances. Understanding these contraindications is crucial to avoid serious adverse reactions.

Patients with active hepatitis B

Artesunate may cause reactivation of the hepatitis B virus, so this drug is contraindicated in patients with active hepatitis B, and all patients need to undergo HBV serology testing before taking the drug.

Patients with a history of severe allergies

Patients with a history of severe allergies to artesunate or its excipients are prohibited from using it. If severe allergic reactions such as anaphylactic shock occur during medication, the medication should be stopped immediately and first aid measures should be taken.

Contraindications for the combination of specific drugs

When artesunate is combined with potent UGT inducers such as rifampicin and carbamazepine, the efficacy will be significantly reduced, and simultaneous use should be avoided.

Recognizing and complying with the contraindications of artesunate can effectively prevent the occurrence of serious adverse reactions.

Usage of artesunate for special groups

Different groups of people need to pay special attention to its safety issues when using artesunate. Medication adjustment for special groups is an important part of clinical treatment.

Drugs for Pregnant Women

Animal studies have shown that artesunate may be embryotoxic, but when severe malaria is life-threatening, it still needs to be used first to save the lives of pregnant women, and fetal development needs to be closely monitored after treatment.

Lactating women

DHA, the active metabolite of artesunate, may be secreted into breast milk. It is recommended to suspend breastfeeding during treatment and make a decision after evaluating the benefits and risks of breastfeeding.

Pediatric Medication

Artesunate is safe and effective for children over 6 months old, and no dose adjustment is required. For infants younger than 6 months of age, although data are limited, pharmacokinetic simulations suggest that exposures are adequate and could be used if necessary.

Personalized medication plans for special groups can maximize the balance between therapeutic effect and safety.