Artesunate IV therapy

What is artesunate?

Artesunate is a medicine derived from artemisinin. Intravenous administration delivers it directly into the circulation. It is different from an herbal tea or an over-the-counter artemisinin supplement; preparations and uses are not interchangeable.

At St. George Hospital, artesunate is available for consideration within integrative oncology and chronic-infection programmes. The recommendation depends on the specific diagnosis and the wider plan, rather than on a general claim that all infections or cancers respond in the same way.

Clinical context and research

The European Medicines Agency authorisation for Artesunate Amivas concerns the initial treatment of severe malaria. Cancer and chronic-infection uses beyond that indication require a separate assessment; malaria approval does not establish effectiveness for them.

A phase I study in advanced solid tumours investigated safety and tolerability. It reported no objective tumour responses, although some participants had stable disease. This early study does not establish a general anticancer benefit. Your physician explains the clinical rationale for any proposed use alongside your existing treatment.

What the assessment covers

The review considers your full medication list, blood results, liver function and previous drug reactions. Allergic reactions and blood-cell changes are among the concerns discussed. EMA product information also describes delayed breakdown of red blood cells after artesunate treatment for severe malaria; the follow-up plan needs to reflect the context of treatment.

Before deciding, ask what change the treatment is intended to achieve, how it will be assessed and which clinician will coordinate follow-up. Treatment duration and scheduling are individual and are explained during medical review.

Frequently asked questions