The Current Directions of Searching for Antiparasitic Drugs

Molecules. 2022 Feb 24;27(5):1534. doi: 10.3390/molecules27051534.

Abstract

Parasitic diseases are still a huge problem for mankind. They are becoming the main cause of chronic diseases in the world. Migration of the population, pollution of the natural environment, and climate changes cause the rapid spread of diseases. Additionally, a growing resistance of parasites to drugs is observed. Many research groups are looking for effective antiparasitic drugs with low side effects. In this work, we present the current trends in the search for antiparasitic drugs. We report known drugs used in other disease entities with proven antiparasitic activity and research on new chemical structures that may be potential drugs in parasitic diseases. The described investigations of antiparasitic compounds can be helpful for further drug development.

Keywords: antiparasitic activity; drugs; new chemical compounds.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Antiparasitic Agents / chemistry
  • Parasites*
  • Parasitic Diseases* / drug therapy
  • Parasitic Diseases* / epidemiology

Substances

  • Antiparasitic Agents