Efficacy of Only IV Artesunate Versus IV Artesunate Plus IV Quinine in the Treatment of Severe Malaria in Children: A Comparative Study

Efficacy of Only IV Artesunate Versus IV Artesunate Plus IV Quinine in the Treatment of Severe Malaria in Children: A Comparative Study

The WHO recommends artesunate as the drug of choice for the treatment of severe malaria. However, the efficacy of this single drug as compared to the combined drug regimen remained questionable, and the clinical response was considered delayed or inappropriate. Therefore, this research intended to evaluate the efficacy of only IV artesunate versus IV artesunate plus IV quinine in the treatment of severe malaria in children. The findings of the study would be helpful knowing whether the two drugs, when given together, have considerable benefit over single-drug therapy when given for the same.

Inclusion Criteria:

Children admitted to the emergency department with the diagnosis of severe malaria.

Exclusion Criteria:

Children with chronic kidney disease, chronic liver disease, immunosuppressive disorders, hematological disorders, malignancies, and congenital heart disease.