The first malaria treatment specifically designed for babies and very young children has been approved for use. It is expected to be distributed in African countries within weeks. Until now, there have been no approved malaria medications for infants, and they have had to rely on formulations intended for older children, which poses a risk of overdose.
Half a million deaths in 2023
In 2023, the most recent figures indicate that malaria was responsible for approximately 597,000 deaths. Nearly all of these fatalities occurred in Africa, with around three-quarters of the victims being children under the age of five. While treatments for malaria in children do exist, until recently, there were no options specifically designed for infants and small children weighing less than 4.5 kg (about 10 lbs). These young patients have been treated with medications intended for older children, which poses risks, as dosages for older kids may not be safe for babies.
Infants’ liver functions are still developing, and their bodies metabolise medications differently, contributing to what experts refer to as a “treatment gap.”Fortunately, a new medication developed by the pharmaceutical company Novartis has received approval from Swiss authorities and is expected to be distributed in regions and countries with the highest malaria incidence within weeks. Novartis plans to introduce this medicine primarily on a not-for-profit basis.
The smallest and most vulnerable
The company’s chief executive, Vas Narasimhan, says this is an important moment. “For more than three decades, we have stayed the course in the fight against malaria, working relentlessly to deliver scientific breakthroughs where they are needed most. “Together with our partners, we are proud to have gone further to develop the first clinically proven malaria treatment for newborns and young babies, ensuring even the smallest and most vulnerable can finally receive the care they deserve.”
The drug, known as Coartem Baby or Riamet Baby in certain countries, was developed by Novartis in partnership with the Medicines for Malaria Venture (MMV). MMV is a Swiss-based non-profit organization that initially received support from the British, Swiss, and Dutch governments, as well as the World Bank and the Rockefeller Foundation.
Eight African nations participated in the assessment and trials for this drug and are expected to be among the first to access it. Martin Fitchet, the CEO of MMV, stated that this represents another important step toward reducing the significant impact of malaria. “Malaria is one of the world’s deadliest diseases, especially among children. However, with the right resources and focus, it can be eliminated.”
“The approval of Coartem Baby provides a necessary medicine with an optimised dose to treat an otherwise neglected group of patients and offers a valuable addition to the antimalarial toolbox.” Dr Marvelle Brown, associate professor at the University of Hertfordshire’s School of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, says this should be seen as a major breakthrough in saving the lives of babies and young children.
“The death rate for malarial infections, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa is extremely high – over 76% of deaths occur in children under five years old. “Increase in death from malaria is further compounded in babies born with sickle cell disease, primarily due to a weak immune system. “From a public health perspective, Novartis making this not-for-profit can help with reducing inequality in access to healthcare.”
Source: BBC
