Suramin

Definition

Suramin is a medication used to treat parasitic diseases such as African trypanosomiasis (sleeping sickness). It works by inhibiting enzymes necessary for the parasite's survival.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Suramin is primarily used in the early stages of African trypanosomiasis before the central nervous system is affected.
2. It is also studied for potential use against other parasitic infections and some viral infections.
3. Administered intravenously, suramin can cause side effects like nausea, vomiting, and allergic reactions.
4. The drug was first developed in the early 20th century and has been a critical tool in combating sleeping sickness caused by Trypanosoma brucei gambiense and Trypanosoma brucei rhodesiense.
5. Suramin disrupts cellular processes in parasites by blocking their glycolysis pathway and nucleic acid synthesis.

Review Questions

• What stage of African trypanosomiasis is suramin most effective against?
• List three possible side effects of suramin treatment.
• How does suramin affect the metabolic pathways of parasites?

Related terms

Trypanosoma brucei: A parasitic species responsible for causing African trypanosomiasis.

Pentamidine: An alternative medication used to treat early-stage African trypanosomiasis.

Nifurtimox-Eflornithine Combination Therapy (NECT): A combination therapy used for treating late-stage African trypanosomiasis.