THE EFFECTS OF VITAMIN C AND GRAPE FRUIT JUICE SUPPLEMENTS ON THE POTENCY AND EFFICACY OF SOME SELECTED ANTI-MALARIAL DRUGS

Combination therapy (CT) is now advocated for the treatment of malaria, especially the artemisinin based CT. Malaria is one of the most serious health challenges facing the world today. It is a disease caused by plasmodium, which could be cured effectively by the use of combination therapeutic drugs called anti-malarial drugs. The effects of vitamin C and grape vine supplements on the potency and efficacy of some selected anti-malarial drugs-combination therapy (Armact, Coartem, Waipa and Fansider) were investigated. A total of 80 patients (adults) infected with malaria parasites were used. The result showed that the concomitant administration of the drugs with grape fruit juices did not alter the efficacy and potency of the drugs, while vitamin C altered the efficacy and potency of the drugs. Therefore, the concomitant administration of these anti-malarial drugs (combination therapies) with vitamin C supplement should be avoided during the period of malaria treatment for the effectiveness of such drugs. [PUBLICATION ABSTRACT]