Abstract:
Malaria is a parasitic disease caused by protozoa of the genus Plasmodium. Early and effective
treatment of malaria is the cornerstone of malaria control. However, the number of available and
effective antimalarial drugs is quickly dwindling may be due to standard antimalarial drugs are
facing different avoidable challenges those may negatively affect its efficacy. This review tried
to assess some major challenge of standard antimalarial drugs. Inaccessibility of proper heath
care services and effective diagnoses leads to delayed diagnosis and treatment that result with
patient death. Self-treatment without confirmed diagnosis, treatment with substandard drugs and
improper usage of the drug expose the parasite to sub-therapeutic level. Treatment with monotherapies
is easy for the parasite to overcome and develop resistance. The knowledge of the
society on every aspect of malaria has its own influence on the malaria control strategy.
Therefore, ensuring that drugs are taken properly only for treating those with a definitive
diagnosis at a sufficient dose and for a sufficient duration reduces this risk. Understanding of the
social, cultural and behavioral issues relating to treatment and prevention of malaria is crucial;
the views of the community should be sought and incorporated into any control measures to
make the participation of the community meaningful.
