Artesunate—multiple pharmacological effects beyond treating malaria

Artesunate, a semisynthetic derivative of artemisinin, is not only recommended as the first-line drug for treating severe malaria but also constitutes a significant member of Artemisinin-based Combination Therapy (ACTs), used in combination with other artemisinin derivatives for treating uncomplicated malaria. Beyond its potent antimalarial activity, artesunate has garnered considerable attention for its pharmacological effects, which encompass broad-spectrum anti-tumor, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties. It has collectively demonstrated superior drug tolerance, low toxicity, and mild side effects in cell line experiments in vitro, experimental animal models, and clinical drug studies, whether administered as a monotherapy or in combination with other agents. Examining its pharmacological action against different diseases will promote the exploration of novel drug applications for artesunate and increase its more comprehensive clinical application.