Antiprotozoal agents are substances that either kill protozoa or prevent their growth and reproduction. Some protozoa of medical significance include those responsible for malaria, Entamoeba histolytica (which causes amebic dysentery), and Trichomonas vaginalis (a culprit of vaginal infections), as well as organisms that lead to infections in individuals with weakened immune systems. Common antiprotozoal medications include antimalarial drugs such as Aralen (chloroquine), Daraprim (pyrimethamine), Lariam (mefloquine), and Plaquenil (hydroxychloroquine). Flagyl (metronidazole) is effective against Entamoeba histolytica and Trichomonas vaginalis, while Mepron (atovaquone) is used to treat infections caused by Pneumocystis carinii.
