Artesunate is an antimalarial drug used for the treatment and prevention of malaria. As with any medication, there are potential side effects to consider when using it for prophylaxis.

According to the CDC [2], some common side effects of artesunate include headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. More serious side effects such as anemia, liver dysfunction, and allergic reactions are rare but can occur. Patients should be monitored for any adverse reactions and seek medical attention if they experience any severe side effects.

A study published in the Journal of Postgraduate Medicine [3] reported that artesunate was generally well-tolerated as a prophylactic medication for malaria. However, the study did note that there were some cases of adverse reactions such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. The study also emphasized the importance of monitoring patients for any adverse reactions and adjusting the medication as needed.

Drug Patent Watch [1] lists several potential side effects of artesunate, including abdominal pain, diarrhea, headache, and dizziness. The website also notes that the drug may cause liver dysfunction and anemia in some patients.

In conclusion, while artesunate is generally well-tolerated as a prophylactic medication for malaria, there are potential side effects to consider. Patients should be monitored for any adverse reactions and seek medical attention if they experience any severe side effects. It is important to weigh the potential benefits of using artesunate for prophylaxis against the potential risks and side effects.

Sources:
[1] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/p/tradename/ARTESUNATE
[2] https://www.cdc.gov/malaria/diagnosis_treatment/clinicians1.html
[3] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2478668/