ferroquine + artesunate

**ferroquine + artesunate** is an oral fixed-dose combination under investigation for **uncomplicated Plasmodium falciparum malaria**. Ferroquine (SSR97193) is a synthetic organometallic compound—specifically a ferrocene-chloroquine analogue—active against both chloroquine-sensitive and chloroquine-resistant strains. Artesunate is a well-established artemisinin derivative with rapid anti-malarial effects. Ferroquine's mechanism of action is hypothesized to involve inhibition of heme detoxification in the parasite's food vacuole, exploiting redox chemistry and lysosomal disruption. Artesunate acts via generation of free radicals triggered by iron and heme, causing parasite death. Combination therapy leverages ferroquine's durable efficacy against resistant malaria and artesunate's rapid parasite clearance, aiming for a cure while minimizing resistance. Clinical trials in African adults and children report high cure rates and favorable safety profiles.