Shares of 60 Degrees Pharmaceuticals (NASDAQ: SXTP) jumped 152% Thursday to an intraday 52-week high after the company announced a strategic partnership with Runway Health to expand access to malaria prevention via digital healthcare channels.
During the session, SXTP shares briefly climbed to $8.62 before pulling back. At the time of reporting, the stock was trading at $5.04, valuing the company at about $4.07 million. Despite a sharp one-day jump and a 63.04% gain over the past month, the stock is still down 70.81% YoY.
Partnership Targets International Travelers
60 Degrees Pharmaceuticals announced that it will work with Runway Health to simplify malaria prevention for international travelers. Specifically, integration with Runway Health’s direct-to-patient telehealth platform is expected to begin on April 2, 2026.
Once live, the platform will allow travelers heading to malaria-endemic regions to access care before departure. Eligible patients will receive personalized treatment plans from U.S.-licensed healthcare providers, with prescribed medications shipped directly to their homes ahead of travel.
The companies aim to reduce pre-travel medical delays by offering early consultations and home-delivered medication for a seamless healthcare experience.
ARAKODA’s Role in Malaria Prevention
At the center of the partnership is ARAKODA, also known as tafenoquine, the company’s FDA-approved malaria prevention drug. The medication received approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in 2018.
Currently, ARAKODA is the only FDA-approved malaria prophylactic in the U.S. that offers once-weekly dosing with broad-spectrum coverage. This, in turn, distinguishes it from many alternatives that require daily administration, which may improve adherence among travelers.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, tafenoquine has a terminal half-life of approximately 16 days, supporting its extended dosing interval. The prescribed regimen begins with two 100-milligram tablets taken daily for three days before travel. Subsequently, it transitions to once-weekly dosing throughout the travel period, concluding with a final weekly dose upon return.
Disease Context and Drug Origins
Malaria remains a significant global health threat, especially in endemic regions. Without prompt treatment, it can quickly progress to severe or even fatal illness. Therefore, effective prevention remains critical for travelers.
ARAKODA was originally discovered by the Walter Reed Army Institute of Research and later advanced through clinical development before receiving FDA approval. By partnering with a telehealth provider, 60 Degrees Pharmaceuticals aims to make this preventive option more accessible to a broader population.
Investor reaction suggests the market views the collaboration as a step toward increased awareness, improved distribution, and potential long-term growth opportunities for the company.
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