Azithromycin-chloroquine and the intermittent preventive treatment of malaria in pregnancy
2008

Azithromycin-Chloroquine for Preventing Malaria in Pregnancy

publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Chico R Matthew, Pittrof Rudiger, Greenwood Brian, Chandramohan Daniel

Primary Institution: London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine

Hypothesis

Can azithromycin and chloroquine effectively replace sulphadoxine-pyrimethamine for intermittent preventive treatment of malaria in pregnancy?

Conclusion

The combination of azithromycin and chloroquine shows promise as an alternative to sulphadoxine-pyrimethamine for preventing malaria in pregnancy.

Supporting Evidence

  • Malaria in pregnancy is a major public health issue in sub-Saharan Africa.
  • Intermittent preventive treatment with sulphadoxine-pyrimethamine reduces low birth weight and maternal anemia.
  • Azithromycin and chloroquine may provide additional benefits, including reducing sexually transmitted infections.

Takeaway

This study looks at using two medicines, azithromycin and chloroquine, together to help pregnant women avoid malaria, which can make them and their babies sick.

Methodology

This review summarizes in vitro and in vivo evidence regarding the efficacy of azithromycin and chloroquine against malaria.

Limitations

The review discusses the need for further clinical trials and the potential for drug resistance.

Participant Demographics

The study focuses on pregnant women in sub-Saharan Africa.

Statistical Information

Confidence Interval

95% CI 88.64 to 164.75 g

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1475-2875-7-255

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