Drug resistance in protozoan parasites

Abstract

As with all other anti-infectives (antibiotics, anti-viral drugs, and anthelminthics), the limited arsenal of anti-protozoal drugs is being depleted by a combination of two factors: Increasing drug resistance and the failure to replace old and often shamefully inadequate drugs, including those compromised by (cross)-resistance, through the development of new anti-parasitics. Both factors are equally to blame: A leaking bathtub may have plenty of water if the tap is left open; if not, it will soon be empty. Here, I will reflect on the factors that contribute to the drug resistance emergency that is unfolding around us, specifically resistance in protozoan parasites.