Novartis’ GanLum Shows Major Progress in Malaria Treatment

Novartis’ investigational malaria therapy GanLum (ganaplacide/lumefantrine) has shown strong Phase III results, potentially marking the first major advance in malaria treatment in over 25 years. In the KALUMA trial of 1,688 patients across 12 African countries, GanLum achieved a 97.4% PCR-corrected cure rate compared with 94% for standard therapy, meeting the primary endpoint of non-inferiority. It also demonstrated high efficacy against mutant, partially drug-resistant parasites and acted quickly on mature gametocytes, helping reduce transmission.

Developed with Medicines for Malaria Venture, GanLum combines a novel antimalarial with a new lumefantrine formulation and is taken once daily for three days. Novartis plans to seek regulatory approval, supported by its FDA Fast Track and Orphan Drug Designations.

Progress is also seen in malaria vaccines, with RH5.1/Matrix-M showing 55% protection in a Phase IIb trial, offering a potential new tool alongside existing WHO-recommended vaccines.

16-11-2025