antimaláricos

Antimaláricos are drugs used to prevent or treat malaria, a disease caused by Plasmodium parasites transmitted to humans through the bites of infected mosquitoes. The choice of antimalarial drug depends on factors such as the specific Plasmodium species causing the infection, the geographic region where the infection was acquired, drug resistance patterns, and the patient's individual characteristics like age, pregnancy status, and co-existing health conditions.

Prophylactic antimalarials are taken before, during, and after travel to malaria-endemic areas to prevent infection. Common examples include atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline, and mefloquine. Treatment of malaria involves eradicating the parasite from the blood. The most common form, Plasmodium falciparum, requires specific treatments, often involving artemisinin-based combination therapies (ACTs). Other Plasmodium species may be treated with drugs like chloroquine or primaquine, though resistance to chloroquine is widespread.

Drug resistance is a significant challenge in malaria control, necessitating ongoing research and development of new antimalarial drugs with novel mechanisms of action. Resistance can arise from genetic mutations in the parasite that reduce the drug's effectiveness. Public health strategies also include vector control measures, such as insecticide-treated bed nets and indoor residual spraying, to reduce mosquito populations and interrupt malaria transmission. Early diagnosis and prompt, appropriate treatment are crucial for reducing morbidity and mortality from malaria.