Which medication is the first-line treatment for malaria?

Chloroquine is recognized as the first-line treatment for malaria, especially for uncomplicated cases caused by Plasmodium falciparum in regions where the parasite has not developed resistance. Chloroquine functions by interfering with the parasite's ability to detoxify heme, leading to the accumulation of toxic heme and ultimately causing the death of the parasite.

Available for many decades, chloroquine remains a critical drug in the management of malaria due to its efficacy, safety profile, and relative cost-effectiveness. However, it's important to note that resistance to chloroquine has emerged in some areas, particularly in Southeast Asia and sub-Saharan Africa, which may require alternative treatments in those regions.

While primaquine is effective for treating the liver stage of Plasmodium vivax and Plasmodium ovale infections and is used to prevent relapses, it is not used as a first-line treatment for uncomplicated malaria. Quinine is an effective treatment as well, particularly for severe malaria but is not preferred for uncomplicated cases due to its side effects and requirement for intravenous administration in more severe instances. Atovaquone, although it can be effective in combination regimens, is not the first-line treatment alone. Thus, chloroquine remains the quintessential first-line