Lumefantrine

Lumefantrine is an antimalarial drug used in combination with artemether for the treatment of acute uncomplicated malaria. It is part of a class of drugs known as antimalarials, which are used to prevent and treat malaria. Lumefantrine works by killing the organisms that cause malaria.

History

Lumefantrine was first synthesized in the 1970s by the Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences as part of a national research project in China known as "Project 523", which aimed to find new drugs for the treatment of malaria.

Medical uses

Lumefantrine is used in combination with artemether for the treatment of acute uncomplicated malaria caused by Plasmodium falciparum. The combination of these two drugs is known as artemether/lumefantrine, and is sold under the brand name Coartem among others.

Side effects

Common side effects of lumefantrine include headache, dizziness, loss of appetite, and palpitations. In rare cases, it can cause severe skin reactions, liver problems, and changes in heart rhythm.

Mechanism of action

Lumefantrine is thought to work by interfering with the digestion of haemoglobin by the malaria parasite. It is believed to inhibit the formation of beta-haematin by forming a complex with haemin, a substance produced by the parasite as it digests haemoglobin.

Pharmacokinetics

Lumefantrine is administered orally and is absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. It is extensively metabolized in the liver by the cytochrome P450 system, and its elimination half-life is approximately 4-5 days.

See also

• Antimalarial medication
• Artemisinin
• Malaria