Use of artemisinin derivatives for the treatment of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)

Abstract

Artesunate is a derivative of artemisinin isolated from a Chinese herb Artemisia annua L. It is used clinically for the treatment of malaria. We investigated potential anti-inflammatory actions of artemisinin derivatives. artemisinin derivatives significantly inhibited OVA-induced signs, symptoms and parameter of airway disorders Taken together, our results clearly demonstrate anti-inflammatory effects of artemisinin derivatives. Artemisinin derivatives can be used to complement or to replace oral steroids during asthma exacerbation treatment. Further artemisinin derivatives can be used as an anti-inflammatory agent for controlling airway disorders. ##STR00001##