Artesunate suppositories: an effective treatment for severe falciparum malaria in rural areas

Abstract

Artesunate is a potent antimalarial agent available in oral, parenteral and rectal formulations. Artesunate suppositories rapidly reduce and quickly clear parasitaemias. The rapidity of effect, availability and convenient dosage regimen make artesunate in suppository form a promising treatment for severe falciparum malaria, particularly in rural areas where parenteral formulations are unavailable.