Pharmacology of absorption and distribution: optimal use of antimalarial drugs in the treatment of severe falciparum malaria in Kenya

ABSTRACT

Since 1989; a project at the KEMRI CRC Unit at Kilifi has focused on the design of appropriate and praticable regimens for the treatment of severe falciparum malaria. Initially; there was no data describing the absorption; distribution and elimination of quinine in Kenyan children; who constitute the great majority of patients. Pharmacokinetic studies were conducted to define these variables; which formed the basis for the design of appropriate and praticable treatment regimens. Even with optimal clinical management; the majority is high in cases of severe malaria treated with quinine at Kilifi. Alternative drugs have been studied in a search for a therapeutic regimen which will further reduce mortality