Best Malaria Drug In Nigeria

Malaria is an acute febrile illness caused by Plasmodium parasites, which are spread to people through the bites of infected female Anopheles mosquitoes. There are 5 parasite species that cause malaria in humans, and 2 of these species – P. falciparum and P. vivax – pose the greatest threat.

Amatem

P. falciparum is the deadliest malaria parasite and the most prevalent on the African continent. P. vivax is the dominant malaria parasite in most countries outside of sub-Saharan Africa.

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P. knowlesi, a type of malaria that naturally infects macaques in Southeast Asia, also infects humans, causing malaria that is transmitted from animal to human (“zoonotic” malaria).

The first symptoms – fever, headache and chills – usually appear 10–15 days after the infective mosquito bite and may be mild and difficult to recognize as malaria. Left untreated, P. falciparum malaria can progress to severe illness and death within a period of 24 hours.

Best Malaria Drug

There are several Malaria drugs in Nigeria. However, artemether and lumefantrine remain the drug of choice on so many occasions. The three brands are coartem, amatem and lonart. They can be given to children.

Malaria drugs that contain artesunate and amodiaquine are equally active against malaria. The common brand is camosunate for children and adults.

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Artequick is another malaria drug known for its efficacy against malaria. It is the preferred drug of choice for those who want a few doses. It contains artemisinin (80 mg), piperaquine (400mg). There is only an adult dose.

Artequin is the last in the list. It contains artesunate and mefloquine. It is highly effective against malaria.