Artemether is an antimalarial medication derived from the sweet wormwood plant, known scientifically as Artemisia annua. It is primarily used to treat malaria, particularly the severe forms caused by the Plasmodium falciparum parasite. Artemether works by disrupting the life cycle of the malaria parasite in the blood, helping to reduce symptoms and clear the infection. This medication is often administered in combination with other antimalarial drugs to enhance its effectiveness and reduce the risk of resistance. Artemether is typically given as an injection or in oral form, depending on the severity of the infection and the patient's condition.