Activity of roxithromycin against Toxoplasma gondii in murine models

Investigations into the activity of roxithromycin against murine toxoplasma infections are reviewed. Roxithromycin is an active drug against murine toxoplasmosis after intraperitoneal challenge with the RH strain of Toxoplasma gondii. Roxithromycin protected 100% of mice after five daily doses of 540 mg per kg administered by gavage. The cure rate after treatment of peritoneal infections seemed to be related to the length of the therapy. Roxithromycin also decreased the number of toxoplasma cysts, after intracerebral infection with the C56 strain and showed synergistic activity when combined with gamma interferon. Thus, roxithromycin could be a worthwhile alternative to current therapy against toxoplasma infections. Clinical studies on its activity and safety, especially in pregnancy, are warranted.