Standardised ethanolic Artemisia annua extracts for the treatment of uncomplicated Malaria
The proposed research is directed on the clinical applicability and possibilities for standardisation of an alternative Artemisia annua extract based on a standardised extraction method for increasing the yield of artemsinin as antimalarial agent. Ethanolic extracts are well known for the preparation of plant extract, but Chinese studies indicated a comparable efficacy of ethanolic Artemisia extracts for treatment of uncomplicated malaria in comparison with pure artemisinin as reference drug (1). Interestingly this extraction method offers a chance for a first application of the plant extract for immediate use where medicines in remote areas are not directly available. This approach an herbal A(rtemisinin) B(ased) C(ombination) therapy will become attainable for the majority of people who need them most in Africa. The idea is to provide a strategy treating people with uncomplicated malaria until a seroius review and diagnosis by well trained health care workers is possible. Until now this rather new concept has not been studied and before embedding in daily life a rational investigation in the benefits and outcome is necessary. Therefore we present in this project proposal a proof of concept strategy on a scientifically based approach. When funding of the present ACT’s for Africa will be sustainable a local production chain, it will offer possibilities for the delivery of high concentrated A. annua extracts, but also purified artemisinin, what can be used for other formulations locally. It is well known that artemisinin monotherapies are not recommended by the WHO. Because of the proof of concept character of this proposal we have not included amodiaquine as potential drug, because we want to show first bioequivalence between the high concentrated plant extract and pure artemisinin. This gives an advantage to rethink other drug alternatives for combination. A detailed clinical planning of combination therapies will be suggested in the phase II strategy after successful closing of this study.
| Laatst gewijzigd: | 11 oktober 2012 09:50 |