The best treatment for malaria, especially for Plasmodium falciparum malaria, is artemisinin-based combination therapy (ACT). ACT combines an artemisinin derivative with a partner drug that has a different mechanism of action, ensuring rapid and full elimination of the parasites as well as reducing the risk of resistance development. For severe malaria cases, intravenous artesunate is the recommended choice. Chloroquine is still used for some non- falciparum types such as P. vivax, and newer options like tafenoquine target liver-stage parasites. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial for a successful outcome. Key points:
- For uncomplicated P. falciparum malaria: artemisinin-based combination therapy (ACT) is the first-line treatment.
- For severe malaria: intravenous artesunate is preferred.
- For P. vivax and P. ovale: chloroquine and primaquine or tafenoquine for liver-stage parasites.
- Avoid oral artemisinin monotherapy due to resistance risks.
- Early diagnosis and treatment within 24 hours of fever onset is critical for preventing complications.
These recommendations align with current WHO guidelines and expert trials showing significant survival benefits with artesunate treatments compared to alternatives like quinine.