ASSOCIAÇÃO ENTRE O USO DE TAFENOQUINA EM DOSE ÚNICA E A REDUÇÃO DAS RECIDIVAS DE MALÁRIA POR PLASMODIUM VIVAX: UMA REVISÃO BIBLIOGRÁFICA

Introduction: Plasmodium vivax malaria remains a major challenge for control in Brazil due to relapses driven by activation of hepatic hypnozoites and poor adherence to the conventional multi-day primaquine regimen. Tafenoquine, a long-half-life 8aminoquinoline, has emerged as a promising single-dose alternative. Methods: We conducted an integrative review of the literature, including randomized trials, observational studies, and programmatic evidence published between 1999 and 2024. Results: Clinical studies show tafenoquine achieves relapse prevention comparable to primaquine, with six-month recurrence-free proportions ranging from 62% to 89%, and consistently outperforming chloroquine monotherapy. Trials and operational evaluations in Brazil indicate effectiveness under real-world conditions, with favorable impacts on adherence, logistical feasibility, and cost-effectiveness. Pilot implementation demonstrated good provider acceptance and expanding coverage across Amazonian states. Adverse events were reported, notably hemolysis among individuals with glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency, as well as hematologic and ocular changes, underscoring the need for quantitative G6PD testing and robust pharmacovigilance protocols. Conclusions: Tafenoquine represents a meaningful therapeutic advance by simplifying P. vivax radical cure and has the potential to substantially reduce relapse burden. Safe use, however, requires prior G6PD screening and appropriate clinical monitoring.