The [mechanism of action](https://) of ACTs involves two stages. First, the artemisinin component acts quickly to reduce the number of parasites in the bloodstream. Artemisinin compounds are activated by the iron in the parasite's digestive vacuole, leading to the production of free radicals that damage the parasite. The partner drug, which acts more slowly, then clears any remaining parasites, ensuring a complete treatment and reducing the likelihood of recrudescence.
