The first malaria treatment formulated specifically for infants and very young children has received approval and is expected to be launched in Africa shortly. Coartem Baby is designed for babies weighing less than 4.5 kg (approximately 10 lb), a group that has previously relied on adult formulations which pose overdose risks. This development comes as malaria-related deaths in 2023 reached nearly 597,000, primarily affecting the African population and, critically, children under five, who account for about three-quarters of these fatalities.
Malaria treatments do exist for children, but the absence of a dedicated solution for the youngest demographic has led to safety concerns. Billions have been spent on malaria research, yet experts note a significant "treatment gap" for the most vulnerable patients. Developed by Novartis and in collaboration with the Medicines for Malaria Venture (MMV), the drug aims to bridge this gap, offering a clinically proven solution specifically tailored for newborns.
The CEO of Novartis, Vas Narasimhan, emphasized the significance of this breakthrough, stating, "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." The company plans to distribute the medication primarily on a not-for-profit basis, ensuring equitable access for those in greatest need.
The approval, which involved partnerships with eight African nations, offers a promising perspective on combating malaria's deadly effects among African infants. Martin Fitchet, CEO of MMV, remarked that this development is pivotal in the global effort to eliminate malaria, particularly given the disproportionate impact it has on children.
Dr. Marvelle Brown from the University of Hertfordshire praised this development as a major advancement in public health, particularly with regards to the high mortality rates among children in sub-Saharan Africa, where malaria remains a top health threat. He noted that the not-for-profit approach of Novartis may help to improve healthcare access and alleviate health disparities in the region.
