Which option is NOT part of the severe malaria regimen listed?

• A. IV Artesunate
• B. Oral Chloroquine
• C. Quinidine IV
• D. Doxycycline

Answer: (B)

Severe malaria requires rapid parasite clearance with parenteral therapy. IV artesunate is the preferred first-line treatment because it acts quickly and reduces mortality. If artesunate isn’t available, IV quinidine can be used, often with doxycycline as a partner drug to boost efficacy and prevent resistance. Oral chloroquine, given by mouth, is not part of the severe malaria regimen because falciparum malaria in most regions is resistant to chloroquine, and oral therapy cannot achieve the rapid, reliable clearance needed in severe disease. Chloroquine may still be used for non-severe malaria in areas with susceptible parasites, but it is not appropriate for severe cases. Doxycycline serves as a partner agent in certain regimens rather than a standalone option for severe malaria.