Gosset Antiprotozoal Overview
"Antiprotozoal" refers to a drug class comprised of medications used to treat infections caused by protozoa, a diverse group of unicellular eukaryotic parasites. These drugs work via various mechanisms depending on the protozoan species and the chemical class of the agent, such as disrupting DNA replication, inhibiting protein synthesis, or interfering with parasite-specific enzymes or metabolic pathways. Because protozoans are phylogenetically diverse, individual drugs may be effective against only certain pathogens. "Antiprotozoal" is not itself a molecular target, but rather a pharmacological category.
Mechanism of Action
Inhibition of DNA synthesis; Disruption of protozoal cell membrane function; Inhibition of protein synthesis; Inhibition of key parasite enzymes (e.g., ornithine decarboxylase, 14-alpha-sterol demethylase, dehydrogenases); Interference with energy metabolism; Other mechanism, depending on specific agent
Biological Functions
No biological function data available
Disease Associations
Safety Considerations
- Toxicity to host cells
- Development of resistance
- Incomplete parasite clearance
- Adverse side effects (may vary by drug, e.g. GI symptoms, bone marrow suppression)