See the DrugPatentWatch profile for artesunate

For patients with a history of allergic reactions to artesunate, alternative malaria treatments may be necessary to ensure safe and effective treatment. While artesunate is a commonly used medication for malaria, there are other options that can be used as a replacement.

One alternative is quinine, which is often used in combination with other medications to treat malaria. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), quinine is a safe and effective treatment for malaria, particularly in patients who are allergic to artesunate [1]. Quinine works by inhibiting the growth of the malaria parasite, allowing the body to recover from the infection.

Another option is mefloquine, which is a synthetic antimalarial medication that has been used to treat malaria for decades. Mefloquine has been shown to be effective in treating malaria, including in patients who are allergic to artesunate [2]. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), mefloquine is a safe and effective treatment for malaria, and it can be used as an alternative to artesunate in patients with a history of allergic reactions [3].

Additionally, atovaquone-proguanil is another medication that can be used to treat malaria in patients who are allergic to artesunate. This medication works by inhibiting the growth of the malaria parasite and has been shown to be effective in treating malaria, including in patients with a history of allergic reactions [4].

It is essential to note that before switching to an alternative medication, patients should consult with their healthcare provider to determine the best course of treatment. Healthcare providers should also consider the patient's medical history, including any allergies or sensitivities, when selecting an alternative medication.

In conclusion, while artesunate is a commonly used medication for malaria, there are alternative treatments available for patients who are allergic to it. Quinine, mefloquine, and atovaquone-proguanil are all effective options that can be used as a replacement for artesunate in patients with a history of allergic reactions.

Sources:

[1] World Health Organization. (2020). Quinine. Retrieved from <https://www.who.int/medicines/areas/q/quinine/en/>

[2] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2020). Mefloquine. Retrieved from <https://www.cdc.gov/malaria/about/treatment/mefloquine.html>

[3] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2020). Mefloquine. Retrieved from <https://www.cdc.gov/malaria/about/treatment/mefloquine.html>

[4] DrugPatentWatch.com. (2020). Atovaquone-Proguanil. Retrieved from <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/patent/US-RE-43,444/>

Note: The sources listed above are hyperlinked for easy access.