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Antimalarial drug development: past to present scenario.
Meenakshi Dhanawat1, Nirupam Das, Ramesh C Nagarwal
1Department of Pharmaceutics, Institute of Technology, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi-221 005, U.P., India. mdanawat.rs.phe@itbhu.ac.in
Mini Reviews in Medicinal Chemistry
|November 26, 2009
Summary
Drug discovery scientists are seeking new, effective, safe, and affordable antimalarial compounds to combat drug-resistant malaria parasites. This review covers current and emerging antimalarial drugs and alternative control strategies.
Area of Science:
- Drug discovery and development
- Parasitology
- Global health
Background:
- Malaria remains a significant global health burden, driven by parasite resistance to existing antimalarial drugs.
- There is an urgent need for novel antimalarial compounds with improved efficacy, safety, and cost-effectiveness.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a comprehensive overview of the current landscape of antimalarial drug discovery.
- To review historical and contemporary antimalarial agents.
- To explore alternative strategies for comprehensive malaria control.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of past and present antimalarial drugs.
- Analysis of newly researched antimalarial candidates.
- Examination of alternative malaria control approaches.
Main Results:
- Existing antimalarial drugs face challenges due to widespread parasite resistance.
- Several novel antimalarial compounds are under investigation, showing promise for future therapies.
- Alternative strategies, including vector control and vaccines, are crucial for complete malaria eradication.
Conclusions:
- Continued research into novel antimalarial drug discovery is essential to overcome resistance.
- A multifaceted approach combining drug development with alternative strategies is necessary for the complete control of malaria.
- Addressing drug resistance and accessibility are key priorities in malaria elimination efforts.
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