Gametocytocidal activity of alpha/beta arteether by the oral route of administration.

Arteether (alpha/beta) (a mixture of alpha and beta enantioners) has been reported to possess gametocytocidal activity against Plasmodium cynomolgi B when the drug is given by the intramuscular route, but it would be preferable to use oral route therapy for gametocyte carriers. This is a report of a study of the gametocytocidal action of arteether administered by the oral route. The results indicate high levels of activity at 10 mg/kg in a single dose or in two divided doses when given orally.