Malaria remains one of the most common and serious health challenges in Nigeria and many parts of the world. At Redeemer’s Health Village, we believe that providing accurate information about the proper use of antimalarial medicines is essential to safeguarding health, preventing complications, and reducing the risk of drug resistance.
This guide explains how to use antimalarials correctly, common mistakes to avoid, and why proper adherence is critical.
Understanding Antimalarials
Antimalarials are medications specifically designed to prevent and treat malaria, a disease caused by parasites transmitted through mosquito bites. Common types of antimalarials include:
- Artemisinin-based Combination Therapies (ACTs) – such as Artemether-Lumefantrine or Artesunate-Amodiaquine
- Chloroquine – (now rarely used due to resistance)
- Prophylactic medications – such as Atovaquone-Proguanil, Mefloquine, and Doxycycline for travellers
Each medication works differently and must be used appropriately for effective results.
Best Practices for Using Antimalarials
1. Confirm Diagnosis Before Treatment
Not all fevers are caused by malaria. It is essential to confirm a diagnosis with a malaria test before starting treatment. Treating malaria without confirmation can mask other serious illnesses and may lead to unnecessary side effects.
At RHV, we strongly recommend proper testing before using any antimalarial.
2. Take the Correct Dosage at the Right Times
Antimalarials must be taken exactly as prescribed. Skipping doses, delaying doses, or altering the dosage can compromise treatment effectiveness and contribute to drug resistance.
Tip: Setting reminders can help you take your medication consistently.
3. Complete the Full Course
Even if you start feeling better, it is vital to complete the entire course of treatment. Stopping midway may not completely clear the infection and can increase the risk of relapse and resistance.
4. Never Share Medication
Antimalarial treatments are tailored to individual needs based on factors like the type of malaria and severity of infection. Sharing medication with others, or using leftover drugs from a previous illness, can be harmful and ineffective.
5. Be Mindful of Side Effects
Some antimalarials may cause side effects like nausea, dizziness, or vivid dreams. If you experience any unusual symptoms, consult a healthcare professional promptly rather than discontinuing the medication on your own.
6. Use Preventive Measures When Travelling
If you are travelling to a malaria-endemic area, preventive antimalarial treatment (prophylaxis) is often recommended. It is important to start the medication before travel, continue during your stay, and complete the course afterwards as directed.
7. Combine Medication with Other Preventive Actions
Medication alone is not sufficient to prevent malaria. It should be complemented with measures such as:
- Sleeping under insecticide-treated nets
- Wearing long-sleeved clothing in the evenings
- Using insect repellents
- Eliminating stagnant water sources around homes
The Importance of Correct Use
Misusing antimalarials whether by self-medicating, underdosing, or not completing a prescribed course — can contribute to the rise of drug-resistant strains of malaria. This makes treatment more difficult, expensive, and dangerous for everyone.
Proper use protects not only your own health but also strengthens community-wide efforts to control and eliminate malaria.
RHV: Your Partner in Health
At RHV, we are committed to ensuring that every patient receives the right advice, the right diagnosis, and the right treatment. If you suspect malaria, need preventive advice before travelling, or require guidance on any medication, our team is always here to support you.
Visit RHV today — your health is our highest priority.
