Antimalarial (Artemisinin-based Combination Therapy - ACT)
Last reviewed June 2026
Who is this for?
Dihydroartemisinin/Piperaquine Phosphate is a combination antimalarial drug that contains two active ingredients which work together to kill the malaria parasite in your blood — dihydroartemisinin acts fast to quickly reduce the parasites, while piperaquine stays in your body longer to clear out the remaining ones and prevent them from coming back.
Inhibits plasmodial protein synthesis and causes oxidative damage to the parasite by generating reactive oxygen species through interaction with heme, while piperaquine intercalates into parasitic DNA and inhibits nucleic acid synthesis, providing synergistic antimalarial activity against Plasmodium falciparum and other malaria parasites.
Prescription Required
You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.
Is Dihydroartemisinin; safe to take with another drug?
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For adults, the usual dose is based on your body weight — typically 2 to 4 tablets taken once a day for 3 days. Take it on an empty stomach (at least 3 hours before or after eating) with a glass of water. Do not take it with food as this can increase side effects. Popular Nigerian brands include D-Artepp, Artexaten, and Dipakso — always follow the dosage instructions on your specific pack or as directed by your pharmacist or doctor.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember — as long as your next dose is not due very soon. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue your normal schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed one. Make sure you still complete the full 3-day course.
Always complete the full 3-day course even if you start feeling better after the first day — stopping early can make the malaria come back stronger. Buy only from licensed pharmacies, not from roadside vendors or unregistered shops, as fake antimalarials are common in Nigeria. If your symptoms do not improve after finishing the course or you develop a fever again, go back to your doctor — you may need a different treatment.
Avoid taking this drug with other medicines that can affect your heart rhythm, such as chloroquine, halofantrine, or some antibiotics like erythromycin. Do not combine it with other artemisinin-based antimalarials (like Coartem/Lonart) at the same time. Avoid alcohol while on this medication as it can worsen dizziness and stomach upset.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Dihydroartemisinin; with your other drugs?
This drug is generally not recommended in the first trimester of pregnancy; if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to get pregnant, consult your doctor before taking it.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat — Nigerian weather can be very hot, so avoid keeping it in your car or near windows. Keep it in its original pack and far out of reach of children.
For information only — not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.
Names this drug is sold under — especially in Nigerian and West African pharmacies
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Counterfeit Drug Warning
Fake drugs are a serious problem in Nigeria. Always buy from a registered pharmacy. If the packaging looks different from what is described above, do not use it.
Dispensing Dihydroartemisinin; Piperaquine Phosphate?
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