Artemisinin Combination Therapies (ACTs)_ A Comprehensive List

Artemisinin Combination Therapies (ACTs): A Comprehensive List

Artemisinin Combination Therapies (ACTs) are the current gold standard for treating uncomplicated malaria. These combinations pair an artemisinin derivative with one or more other antimalarial drugs to improve efficacy and reduce the risk of resistance development. Here's a list of the most common and WHO-recommended ACTs:

Artemether-Lumefantrine (AL)

Brand names: Coartem, Riamet

Artesunate-Amodiaquine (AS-AQ)

Brand names: ASAQ, Coarsucam

Dihydroartemisinin-Piperaquine (DHA-PQP)

Brand names: Eurartesim, Artekin

Artesunate-Mefloquine (AS-MQ)

Brand names: ASMQ, Artequin

Artesunate-Sulfadoxine-Pyrimethamine (AS-SP)

Primarily used in areas where SP remains effective

Artesunate-Pyronaridine (AS-PY)

Brand name: Pyramax

Artemisinin-Naphthoquine (AN)

Used in some regions, particularly in Asia

Artesunate-Chlorproguanil-Dapsone (ACD)

Development discontinued due to safety concerns

Artemether-Lumefantrine-Amodiaquine (AL-AQ)

A triple combination therapy under investigation

Dihydroartemisinin-Piperaquine-Trimethoprim (DHA-PQP-T)

Another triple combination therapy being studied

These ACTs are typically administered orally over a three-day course, with specific dosing regimens based on the patient's weight and age. The choice of ACT may vary depending on local malaria parasite resistance patterns, drug availability, and national treatment guidelines. It's important to note that ongoing research continues to explore new combinations and formulations to address evolving challenges in malaria treatment and prevention.