Artemisinin

Definition

Artemisinin is an antimalarial drug derived from the sweet wormwood plant, Artemisia annua. It is known for its rapid action in reducing Plasmodium parasite levels in the blood.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Artemisinin and its derivatives are effective against the asexual blood stage of Plasmodium parasites.
2. It works by producing free radicals that damage parasite proteins and membranes.
3. Due to its short half-life, artemisinin is often used in combination therapies to prevent resistance.
4. Artemisinin-based combination therapies (ACTs) are the first-line treatment for uncomplicated P. falciparum malaria.
5. Resistance to artemisinin has been reported, primarily in Southeast Asia, posing a significant challenge to malaria control.

Review Questions

• What stage of the Plasmodium life cycle does artemisinin act upon?
• Why is artemisinin often used in combination therapies?
• What major concern has arisen regarding the efficacy of artemisinin?

Related terms

Plasmodium: A genus of parasites responsible for malaria.

Antimalarial Drugs: Medications used to prevent or treat malaria.

Combination Therapy: Use of multiple medications to treat a single disease, often to prevent resistance.