ISSN:
1432-1041
Keywords:
Key words Artesunic acid
;
Pharmacokinetics
;
Malaria
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Chemistry and Pharmacology
,
Medicine
Notes:
Abstract Objective: A single cross-over, comparative pharmacokinetic study of oral and rectal formulations of 200 mg artesunic acid in 12 healthy Malaysian volunteers is reported. Methods: Plasma concentrations of artesunic acid and dihydroartemisinin were determined simultaneously by HPLC with electrochemical detection. The test drug was well tolerated and no undesirable adverse effects were observed. Results: Comparison of pharmacokinetic parameters of artesunic acid after oral and rectal administration showed statistically significant differences in t max and AUC, with no changes for C max and t 1/2. As for dihydroartemisinin, differences were observed for t max and C max but not for AUC. Conclusion: There appear to be pharmacokinetic differences between oral and rectal modes of administration. The significance of these findings should be explored in malaria patients before appropriate therapeutic regimens are devised.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s002280050484
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