Malaria still kills thousands each year, but the right medicine can stop it fast. If you feel fever, chills, or a headache after a bite in a malaria‑risk area, start treatment right away. Early therapy not only lowers your risk of severe illness but also cuts the chance of spreading the parasite.
Most countries follow WHO recommendations, which focus on artemisinin‑based combination therapies (ACTs). These combine a fast‑acting artemisinin derivative with a partner drug that clears any remaining parasites. ACTs are the gold standard for uncomplicated malaria caused by Plasmodium falciparum, the deadliest species.
Artemether‑lumefantrine (Coartem) is widely used in Africa and Asia. The typical adult course is six doses over three days. Side effects are usually mild—headache, dizziness, or stomach upset.
Chloroquine works well against P. vivax and P. ovale in areas without resistance. A single dose of 25 mg/kg is given, followed by a 7‑day course of primaquine to clear liver-stage parasites.
Mefloquine is taken as a single 15 mg/kg dose for prophylaxis or treatment. It can cause vivid dreams or anxiety, so ask your doctor about alternatives if you’ve had these before.
Atovaquone‑proguanil (Malarone) is a popular option for travelers. The dose is one tablet daily for three days after symptoms start. It’s well tolerated, but it’s pricier than some older drugs.
Primaquine is essential for preventing relapses of P. vivax and P. ovale. The usual dose is 0.25 mg/kg daily for 14 days, but it must be used only after checking for G6PD deficiency.
Always get antimalarial drugs from a reputable pharmacy or your health‑care provider. Fake pills can contain the wrong amount of active ingredient, which fuels drug resistance.
Follow the exact dosage schedule. Skipping a dose or stopping early lets parasites survive and become harder to kill. Set alarms or use a pill box to stay on track.
If you experience nausea, dizziness, or a rash, contact a doctor right away. Most side effects are manageable, but severe reactions need medical attention.
Travelers should start prophylaxis before entering a malaria zone, continue during the stay, and keep taking it for at least seven days after leaving. This prevents parasites that hide in the liver from emerging later.
People with pregnancy, liver disease, or G6PD deficiency need special drug choices. Talk to a health professional to pick the safest option for your situation.
Finally, remember that medication is only part of the plan. Use insect repellent, sleep under treated nets, and wear long sleeves when possible. Combining prevention with prompt treatment gives you the best chance to beat malaria quickly.
Get the real story about chloroquine in 2025: what it treats, who should take it, common side effects, and how to use it safely.
