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Describe the standard antimalarial treatment protocol for severe malaria in pregnancy, specifying the preferred first-line drug, route of administration, minimum duration of parenteral therapy, and the follow-up oral regimen.

Answer

First-line therapy is parenteral (IV or IM) artesunate for a minimum of 24 hours (at least three doses). Once the patient is clinically stable and can tolerate oral intake, complete treatment with a full 3-day course of an artemisinin-based combination therapy (ACT).

Explanation

Severe malaria is an emergency and requires prompt effective antimalarial therapy. The slides emphasize parenteral artesunate, followed by an oral ACT course when feasible, alongside organ-specific supportive care. **Key takeaway:** Stabilization and parasite treatment must proceed together.\n\n**Glossary:** **ACT**: artemisinin-based combination therapy; **IV/IM**: intravenous/intramuscular; **supportive care**: treatment that maintains physiological function and manages complications.

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