Australian TGA approves pediatric tafenoquine

Australia’s Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has approved the use of single-dose Kozenis (tafenoquine) in children aged two years and above in combination with chloroquine for the radical cure (prevention of relapse) of Plasmodium vivax (P. vivax) malaria.

The approval includes a novel, 50mg dispersible tablet that can be dispersed in water and which was developed by GlaxoSmithKline (LSE: GSK in partnership with Medicines for Malaria Venture (MMV) to facilitate use in children, who are disproportionately affected by the disease.

“We are proud to have worked with GSK to develop this child-friendly treatment and are thrilled by today’s announcement. P. vivax malaria is particularly dangerous for young children for whom repeated relapses can lead to cumulative severe anemia and, in some cases, be fatal. Today, we have a tool to put a stop to the relentless relapse both for adults and children – we are one step closer to defeating this disease,” said Dr David Reddy, chief executive of MMV.