Meglumine Antimoniate
Meglumine Antimoniate is an antiparasitic medication primarily used to treat various forms of leishmaniasis, a disease caused by Leishmania parasites transmitted through sandfly bites. It is administered by injection and is considered a first-line treatment in many regions, particularly for cutaneous and visceral leishmaniasis. This drug contains pentavalent antimony and has been used clinically for several decades.
Meglumine Antimoniate is an antiparasitic injection used to treat leishmaniasis infections.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- P01CB01
- RxNorm
- 319866
- Generic
- Meglumine Antimoniate
- Class
- atc-p01
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- solution
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Meglumine Antimoniate is used to treat leishmaniasis, including cutaneous leishmaniasis (causing skin ulcers), mucocutaneous leishmaniasis (affecting nose and throat), and visceral leishmaniasis (kala-azar, affecting internal organs). It may also be used for other parasitic infections at the discretion of treating physicians.
The exact mechanism of action is not fully characterized, but pentavalent antimonial compounds like meglumine antimoniate are believed to work by interfering with the energy metabolism of Leishmania parasites and potentially damaging their cell membranes and organelles. The drug appears to accumulate within parasite cells where it is reduced to the more active trivalent form.
This medication is typically administered by intramuscular or slow intravenous injection. Common side effects may include gastrointestinal symptoms, muscle pain, and cardiac effects. It requires medical supervision and monitoring, particularly of cardiac function and liver enzymes. Use during pregnancy should be carefully considered against potential risks.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy