Sesquiterpene with an endoperoxide moeity
Active against all human malarial parasites, including multi-drug resistant Plasmodium falciparum strains.
Several proposed including the production of free radicals, other reactive metabolites, and altered membrane transport properties of membranes which may inhibit nutrient flow to the parasite.
No data available
1.2mg/kg dose in adult patients with P. falciparum malaria: Cmax: 490 mcg/L; Half-life: 58 minutes; Table 3
Cardiac: QTc prolongation, bradycardia
Neurologic: Neurotoxic (by mostly in-vitro data)
The recommended dose for dihydroartemisinin is 120 mg initially, then 60 mg daily for a further 4 to 6 days.
Ascites/Edema: No data, however due to relatively low volume of distribution, dose calculations based on ideal body weight may be appropriate.
No data available
Concomitant administration of mefloquine and dihydroartemisinin leads to a modest increase in mefloquine absorption rate
Not established. The World Health Organization currently advises against the use of artemisinins in the first trimester of pregnancy, unless in a lifesaving situation where other drugs are not suitable. In the second and third trimesters of pregnancy, artemisinin and its derivatives are not recommended unless alternative drug treatments are unsuitable.
None
Information not currently available