Antimalarial drugs are medications used to prevent and treat malaria, a disease caused by parasites transmitted through the bites of infected mosquitoes. These drugs work by targeting different stages of the parasite's life cycle, helping to eliminate the infection from the body. Common antimalarial drugs include chloroquine, artemisinin, and mefloquine. The effectiveness of antimalarial drugs can vary based on the specific type of malaria and the region where the infection occurs. Some parasites have developed resistance to certain medications, making it essential for healthcare providers to choose the appropriate treatment based on local patterns of resistance and patient health.