Nanoparticle-Encapsulated Artemisinin Derivatives for Plasmodium falciparum: Comparative Efficacy, Pharmacokinetics, and Resistance Prevention

Kato Jumba K.

Faculty of Science and Technology Kampala International University Uganda

                                                                                                 ABSTRACT
Malaria remained a critical global health challenge, with Plasmodium falciparum causing approximately 229 million cases and 409,000 deaths annually, predominantly affecting sub-Saharan Africa. Traditional artemisinin-based combination therapies face mounting challenges from emerging drug resistance and suboptimal pharmacokinetic properties. This review examined the therapeutic potential of nanoparticle-encapsulated artemisinin derivatives in combating P. falciparum infections, evaluating their comparative efficacy, pharmacokinetic advantages, and
resistance prevention capabilities. A comprehensive literature review was conducted, analyzing peer-reviewed publications from 2018-2024, focusing on nanotechnology applications in antimalarial drug delivery systems. Nanoparticle encapsulation significantly enhanced artemisinin derivative bioavailability by 2.5-4.0 fold, extends plasma half-life from 1-2 hours to 8-12 hours, and improves targeted drug delivery to infected erythrocytes. Liposomal, polymeric, and lipid-based nanocarriers demonstrate superior therapeutic indices compared to conventional formulations. Enhanced drug concentration at target sites reduces the likelihood of resistance development by maintaining therapeutic levels above the minimum inhibitory concentration for extended periods. Clinical studies indicate improved patient compliance due to reduced dosing frequency and enhanced therapeutic outcomes in artemisinin-resistant malaria cases. Nanoparticle-encapsulated artemisinin derivatives represented a promising advancement in malaria chemotherapy, offering enhanced efficacy, improved pharmacokinetic profiles, and potential resistance prevention mechanisms.

Keywords: Artemisinin derivatives, Nanoparticle encapsulation, Plasmodium falciparum, Drug resistance,
Pharmacokinetics

CITE AS: Kato Jumba K. (2026). NanoparticleEncapsulated Artemisinin Derivatives for Plasmodium falciparum: Comparative Efficacy,
Pharmacokinetics, and Resistance Prevention. NEWPORT INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PUBLIC HEALTH AND PHARMACY,7(1):95-100.
https://doi.org/10.59298/NIJPP/2026/7195100