Antimalarials are medications used to prevent and treat malaria, a serious disease caused by parasites transmitted through the bites of infected mosquitoes. These drugs work by targeting the life cycle of the malaria parasite, helping to eliminate it from the body. Common antimalarials include chloroquine and artemisinin, which are effective against different strains of the parasite. In addition to treating malaria, antimalarials can also be used for other conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus. It's important for travelers to areas where malaria is common to take these medications as a preventive measure, ensuring they stay healthy during their trip.