The type of parasite causing the infection, the severity of the disease, and any drug resistance in the area where the infection was contracted all influence the medication prescribed for treating malaria. Here are a few medications that are frequently used to treat malaria:

Combination therapies based on artemisinin (ACTs): ACTs are the most effective treatment available for treating uncomplicated malaria caused by Plasmodium falciparum, the malaria parasite that is most dangerous. Typically, these combos include an antimalarial medication (such lumefantrine, amodiaquine, mefloquine, or piperaquine) combined with an artemisinin derivative (like artemether, artesunate, or dihydroartemisinin). ACTs have a rapid effect on lowering blood parasite counts.

Chloroquine: In the past, chloroquine was frequently used to treat malaria brought on by Plasmodium vivax, Plasmodium malariae, and certain strains of susceptible Plasmodium falciparum. However, it is currently largely utilized in locations where the parasite is still sensitive to it due to widespread resistance, especially in P. falciparum.

Quinine: Quinine has been used to treat malaria for millennia. It is usually used in conjunction with other medications (such clindamycin, tetracycline, or doxycycline) for severe instances of malaria or in patients who are not tolerant of other treatments.

Mefloquine: Mefloquine is used to treat P. falciparum, P. vivax, or P. malariae-induced uncomplicated malaria. In regions where parasites are resistant to other antimalarial medications, it is frequently utilized.

Proguanil and atovaquone together