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Tafenoquine plus Artesunate-pyronaridine

Menzies School of Health Research · FDA-approved active Small molecule

This combination targets malaria parasites through two complementary mechanisms: tafenoquine eliminates dormant liver-stage parasites and gametocytes, while artesunate-pyronaridine rapidly kills blood-stage parasites.

This combination targets malaria parasites through two complementary mechanisms: tafenoquine eliminates dormant liver-stage parasites and gametocytes, while artesunate-pyronaridine rapidly kills blood-stage parasites. Used for Uncomplicated malaria caused by Plasmodium falciparum or Plasmodium vivax.

At a glance

Generic nameTafenoquine plus Artesunate-pyronaridine
SponsorMenzies School of Health Research
Drug classAntimalarial combination
TargetPlasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax (parasite species); mechanism involves multiple targets including mitochondrial function and heme detoxification
ModalitySmall molecule
Therapeutic areaInfectious Disease
PhaseFDA-approved

Mechanism of action

Tafenoquine is an 8-aminoquinoline that acts on hypnozoites (dormant forms) in the liver and prevents transmission by targeting gametocytes. Artesunate-pyronaridine is a fixed-dose artemisinin-based combination that rapidly reduces parasitemia by generating reactive oxygen species and disrupting parasite metabolism. Together, they provide both rapid symptom relief and prevention of relapse and transmission.

Approved indications

Common side effects

Key clinical trials

Primary sources

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SourceUsed for
ClinicalTrials.govTrial enrolment, design, endpoints, results

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