Antifilarial and Antileishmanial Drugs

Antifilarial and antileishmanial drugs are APIs targeting helminths and protozoa responsible for severe tropical diseases such as lymphatic filariasis and leishmaniasis. These compounds include macrocyclic lactones, arsenical derivatives, antimonial drugs, and oral small molecules. Their mechanisms range from disrupting parasite microtubules and inhibiting energy metabolism to altering membrane integrity and modulating host immune responses. These APIs are crucial for mass drug administration programs and individual therapy for visceral, cutaneous, and mucocutaneous leishmaniasis. They help prevent chronic disability, reduce parasite transmission, and support global eradication goals. Due to toxicity concerns, optimized regimens and safer next-generation treatments are continuously being developed.