artemisinin + naphthoquine

Artemisinin + naphthoquine is a fixed-dose oral combination antimalarial therapy, classified as an artemisinin-based combination therapy (ACT). It combines the fast parasite clearance of artemisinin with the longer half-life and sustained activity of naphthoquine. Artemisinin acts by generating free radicals through cleavage of its endoperoxide bridge in the presence of iron within malaria-infected erythrocytes, damaging parasite proteins and leading to rapid reduction in parasitemia. Naphthoquine, a 4-aminoquinoline derivative synthesized in China, provides prolonged antimalarial action to clear residual parasites and prevent recrudescence. This combination is primarily indicated for uncomplicated malaria caused by Plasmodium falciparum and has demonstrated efficacy against Plasmodium vivax as well[2][6][7]. The regimen is typically administered as a single or two-dose course over 24 hours (ARCO tablets), which may improve adherence compared to other ACTs requiring longer dosing schedules[6][7]. Developed initially by Chinese research institutes, it has undergone clinical assessment in several countries.

Brand names

ARCO

Other names

artemisinin-naphthoquineartemisinin/naphthoquine