Question:

Which class of antimalarial drugs is responsible for radical cure by killing exo-erythrocytic forms?

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In malaria, some Plasmodium species (P. vivax and P. ovale) form dormant liver-stage parasites called hypnozoites (exo-erythrocytic forms).
Updated On: Jun 24, 2026
  • 8-Aminoquinolines
  • Artemisinin compounds
  • Biguanides
  • Phenanthrene methanols
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The Correct Option is A

Solution and Explanation

Concept:
In malaria, some Plasmodium species (P. vivax and P. ovale) form dormant liver-stage parasites called hypnozoites (exo-erythrocytic forms). "Radical cure" means eliminating these liver forms to prevent relapses, not just clearing the blood-stage infection.

How it works: The 8-aminoquinolines (such as primaquine and tafenoquine) are the only antimalarials that kill the dormant exo-erythrocytic (liver) forms, providing a radical cure and preventing relapse.

Why the other choices are wrong: Artemisinins and phenanthrene methanols (e.g. mefloquine, lumefantrine) mainly act on blood-stage parasites. Biguanides (e.g. proguanil) have causal prophylactic activity but are not the standard radical-cure agents for hypnozoites.

Answer: Option (1) — 8-Aminoquinolines provide radical cure by killing exo-erythrocytic forms. (1)
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