Products
No drugs containing benznidazole are on the market in many countries. Rochagan or Radanil are not approved in many countries.
Structure and properties
Benznidazole (C12H12N4O3, Mr = 260.2 g/mol) is a nitroimidazole and an acetamide. The compound was originally developed at Roche and launched in the 1970s.
Effects
Benznidazole (ATC P01CA02) has antiparasitic properties. The effects are due to the formation of free radicals to which parasites are sensitive.
Indications
For the treatment of Chagas disease, a parasitic disease also known as South American trypanosomiasis, caused by the protozoan.
Adverse effects
Possible adverse effects include gastrointestinal distress, peripheral neuropathy, blood count abnormalities, and severe skin reactions.
