Malaria: Experts recommend soft gel capsules to improve medication adherence

Despite the availability of effective treatments, experts have revealed that over 60 percent of Nigerians discontinue oral medications while undergoing treatment. This leads to challenges such as drug resistance, poor patient adherence, and limited malaria management, which in turn hinders the global fight against the societal menace.

To effectively revolutionise malaria treatment through consistent dosing, they encouraged the use of soft gel capsules, which they stressed not only have patient-friendly properties but also affirmed that the soft gel technology improves absorption in oral drug delivery.

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This was revealed at the 43rd annual international conference of the Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria (ACPN) as well as the official launch of Coatal Forte Soft Gelatin Capsules by Geneith Pharmaceuticals Limited, held at the International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan, Oyo State.

A consultant Clinical Pharmacologist and Malaria Scientist at University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, Dr. Michael Obaro, explained at the event that soft gel capsules are known for their enhanced bioavailability with patient-friendly properties. Unlike traditional tablets, soft gels can improve drug absorption, ensure consistent dosing, and provide a stable medium for active ingredients.

“Soft gels facilitate quicker and more efficient absorption of antimalarial drugs, ensuring rapid therapeutic effects. Their ease of swallowing can lead to better adherence, particularly among children and the elderly. Additionally, they can protect sensitive drug compounds from degradation, maintaining their potency over time,” he added.

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The expert revealed that a significant barrier to effective malaria management shows that over 60 percent of Nigerians discontinue oral medications while undergoing treatment. Despite the availability of effective treatments, challenges such as drug resistance, poor patient adherence, and limited accessibility hinder the global fight against malaria.

Obaro noted that soft gel formulations can be marketed as a premium product due to positive consumer perception.

“They can be taken without water, offer convenience for patients in areas where access to clean water may be limited, and include tamper-evident features, providing an additional layer of safety and trust for consumers,” he said.

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While explaining that malaria thrives in areas close to water bodies, poor environmental conditions, and large populations, Obaro also pointed out that medications alone cannot eliminate malaria in a country like Nigeria and further added that mass treatment and a change in individual mindsets are also required.

The Assistant General Manager, Sales and Marketing, Geneith Pharmaceuticals Limited, Pharm. Abimbola Bowoto, described the Coatal Soft Gel as patient-friendly, accessible, affordable, and suitable for all ages. He also explained that the emergence of the product, which comes in two formulations: Coatal Gelatin Soft Gel 80/480 and 20/120, now provides patients with options as well as reduces non-compliance with medications by patients