Artesunate
Artesunate
Artesunate (pronounced: ar-te-su-nate) is a medication used primarily to treat malaria. It is a water-soluble, semi-synthetic derivative of artemisinin, which is a natural product of the Chinese plant Artemisia annua, also known as sweet wormwood.
Etymology
The term "Artesunate" is derived from its parent compound, artemisinin. The suffix "-ate" indicates it is a derivative of artemisinin. Artemisinin is named after the plant Artemisia annua, from which it is extracted.
Usage
Artesunate is used in the treatment of severe malaria, caused by the Plasmodium falciparum parasite. It is also used in combination with other antimalarial drugs for the treatment of uncomplicated malaria. Artesunate has been found to be particularly effective due to its rapid action against the malaria parasite.
Mechanism of Action
Artesunate is activated by the parasite's heme to free radicals, which then damage proteins essential for the parasite's survival. The exact mechanism of action is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve the inhibition of the parasite's mitochondria and apicoplast, two organelles vital for its survival.
Side Effects
Common side effects of artesunate include nausea, vomiting, and anemia. In rare cases, it can cause serious side effects such as neutropenia, serious allergic reactions, and liver problems.
Related Terms
- Artemisinin: The parent compound from which artesunate is derived.
- Artemisia annua: The plant from which artemisinin is extracted.
- Malaria: The disease primarily treated with artesunate.
- Plasmodium falciparum: The parasite that causes the most severe form of malaria.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Artesunate
- Wikipedia's article - Artesunate
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