Leggat, Peter A. (2003) Trends in antimalarial use in Australia. Annals of the Australasian College of Tropical Medicine, 4 (2). pp. 28-30.

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Abstract

Doxycycline probably remains the malaria chemoprophylaxis of choice prescribed for Australians visiting multiple drug resistant malarious areas. Over the past 10 years, there has been a marked drop in the prescription of less useful antifolate drugs, such as pyrimethamine combination antimalarial drugs, as well as chloroquine, with a rise in prescription of mefloquine and proguanil. Newer drugs, such as Malarone® and tafenoquine may displace these antimalarials in the future, particularly in the prevention of P.falciparum infection. The issuing of updated guidelines for malaria chemoprophylaxis has probably been the most effective means of influencing the prescription of antimalarials, particularly with the reduction in the use of antifolate drugs. Continuing medical education, compliance with the national travel medicine guidelines and regulation of antimalarial use, especially through restricted access and withdrawal from the market, may be useful in maintaining appropriate prescription of antimalarial drugs. Where appropriate, advice concerning personal protective measures against malaria and other vector-borne diseases should continue to be given.

Item ID:	5753
Item Type:	Article (Research - C1)
ISSN:	1448-4706
Keywords:	Australia; malaria; prophylaxis; travel medicine; travellers
Date Deposited:	21 Dec 2009 03:17
FoR Codes:	11 MEDICAL AND HEALTH SCIENCES > 1117 Public Health and Health Services > 111799 Public Health and Health Services not elsewhere classified @ 100%
SEO Codes:	92 HEALTH > 9204 Public Health (excl. Specific Population Health) > 920404 Disease Distribution and Transmission (incl. Surveillance and Response) @ 100%
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