HPLC with Polarographic Detection of Artemisinin and Its Derivatives and Application of the Method to the Pharmacokinetic Study of Artemether

Abstract

Artemisinin (I) is a new sesquiterpene lactone containing a peroxid bridge and has been shown to have remarkable curative effectiveness in various malarias [1]. Its derivatives such as dihydroartemisinin (II), artemether (III) and artesunate (IV) are even more effective than artemisinin itself [2]. It is known that these drugs can be prepared in supporsitories or injection solutions for rectal, intramuscular or intraveinous administrations, respectively, with the advantages of small dosage and high curative effect [3].