Call for an instant quote 0345 90 80 161
Open Mon to Fri 09:00 - 17:30 | Sat 09:00 - 16:00 (GMT)
Or call 0345 90 80 161
22 May 2012 08:36
The research was carried out in laboratories in California
Researchers have suggested that a drug commonly used to combat arthritis may also be an effective weapon against parasitic organisms.
Marketed as Ridaura, auranofin reduces the inflammation which rheumatoid arthritis causes.
But studies suggest auranofin could also be used to treat amoebic dysentery and maybe Giardia - diseases which often affect people in developing nations.
The two infections cause severe diarrhoea and stomach cramps - symptoms which can be suffered by those spending long periods of time in such far-flung destinations.
Those travelling to developing countries should ensure they have a medical travel insurance policy in place before they arrive to offer cover for any essential treatment.
More than 70,000 people die each year due to the amoebic dysentery organism Entamoeba histolytica, and most of the deaths occur in developing countries.
But American scientists found that auranofin targets a protective enzyme the amoeba needs if it is to survive.
Hamsters and mice were infected and it was found the drug caused a decline in the number of parasites as well as reducing inflammation.
Research showed auranofin was 10 times more effective than the antibiotic metronidazole, which is used to treat dysentery at the moment.
"This new use of an old drug represents a promising therapy for a major health threat," said lead researcher Professor Sharon Reed, from the University of California at San Diego.
16 April 2019
Heading to Madrid? Here's our guide to six must-see places you should visit in the Spanish capital, from food markets to fine art and plenty in between.
[more...]
10 April 2019
Experience the magic of Madrid's Fiesta de San Isidro 2019! Discover where to stay, what to eat and what to see as you explore one of Spain's greatest festivals.
Experience Seville's intoxicating Feria de Abril and discover Andalucía's most famous festival! Here's your ultimate guide to La Feria.
01 April 2019
Songkran is Thailand's famous New Year's festival - and the world's biggest water fight. Here's everything you need to know before you plan your trip.
Travelling to Thailand? Learn the important local traditions and cultures to ensure you act respectfully in 'The land of a thousand smiles.'
Travelling overseas with young children? Make going through the airport easy and stress-free by following these top tips for surviving the airport with kids when flying.
25 March 2019
Discover the best places to learn to scuba dive! Check out our list of top dive locations around the world that are perfect for scuba diving beginners.
Looking for some late-season skiing? Here are some of the best places for spring skiing in Europe where you can enjoy reliable snow cover.
19 March 2019
Looking for adventure? Create your perfect Scandinavian weekend with these alternative city break ideas.
Lower your blood pressure with these fresh, healthy foods you can add to your diet.
02 March 2019
A Flybe flight was forced to abort take-off due to the cabin filling with "smoke" while it was accelerating along the runway at Exeter Airport.
01 March 2019
Holidaymakers will soon be able to take advantage of the first direct flight from London to Scotland's Western Isles after Loganair announced three new routes.