Melarsoprol moa

Melarsoprol is a derivative of mersalyl oxide, a trivalent arsenical. Its use is limited to the treatment of trypanosomal infections (usually in the late stage with CNS involvement), and it is lethal to these parasites.The drug reacts with sulfhydryl groups of various substances, including enzymes in both the organism and host. The parasite’s enzymes may be more sensitive than those of the host. There is evidence that mammalian cells may be less permeable to the drug and are protected from its toxic effects. Trypanosomal resistance may also be due to decreased permeability of the drug.