Question

___________________is the only 8-aminoquinoline currently in use for the treatment of Malaria

• A. Chloroquine
• B. Primaquine
• C. Quinine
• D. Amodiaquine

Answer 1

Answer:

B. Primaquine

• Primaquine is a synthetic 8-aminoquinoline drug primarily utilized for the radical cure of Plasmodium vivax and Plasmodium ovale malaria.
• It is the only clinically available agent in the 8-aminoquinoline class that effectively destroys the dormant liver stages (hypnozoites) of these malaria parasites, thereby preventing clinical relapse.
• Mechanism of Action: It acts as a tissue schizonticide and also exhibits gametocytocidal activity, which helps in interrupting the transmission of the parasite from humans to mosquitoes.
• Safety Concern (G6PD Deficiency): A critical clinical consideration is that Primaquine can induce severe hemolysis (destruction of red blood cells) in patients with a genetic deficiency of the enzyme Glucose-6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase (G6PD).
• Historical Context: Developed during the 1940s, it remains a cornerstone in malaria eradication strategies because it is the only currently approved medication capable of clearing the liver reservoir of parasites.
• Other 8-Aminoquinolines: While other derivatives like Tafenoquine have been developed more recently as single-dose alternatives, Primaquine continues to be the standard regimen for radical cure, typically administered over a 14-day course.