Comparison of Meglumine Antimoniate and Miltefosine in Cutaneous Leishmaniasis

Authors

  • Saima Shahid Pak Emirates Military Hospital
  • Aisha Akhter Pak Emirates Military Hospital, Pakistan

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.61581/mjsp.v5i01.375

Abstract

Objective: The study aims to compare the efficacy and safety of meglumine antimoniate and miltefosine in the treatment of cutaneous leishmaniasis in Pakistan.

Methodology: This randomized-controlled trial was conducted at the Dermatology Departments of Pak Emirates Military Hospital Rawalpindi, Pakistan, from January to December 2021. Efficacy was graded on Day 28 as excellent (91-100% improvement), good (75-90%), fair (50-74%), or poor (<50%) based on re-epithelialization, flattening, and induration reduction. Both groups received 28 days of treatment.

Results: According to the response to treatment, 10 (28.6%) and 7 (20.0%) had excellent responses in Group I and Group II, respectively. Meanwhile, 8 (22.9%) and 2 (5.7%) were discontinued in Group I and Group II, respectively. Adverse effect was noted as 14 (40.0%) and 18 (51.4%) in Group I and II, respectively. Chest tightness, myalgia/arthralgia and raised ALT were the most common side effects in both groups.

Conclusion: Meglumine antimoniate is more effective than miltefosine for treating cutaneous leishmaniasis, showing better parasite eradication and faster lesion healing. However, the use of both drugs is limited by side effects like chest tightness, muscle pain, elevated ALT levels, and gastrointestinal symptoms, which can affect susceptible patients.

Downloads

Download data is not yet available.

Published

19-05-2026

How to Cite

1.
Shahid S, Akhter A. Comparison of Meglumine Antimoniate and Miltefosine in Cutaneous Leishmaniasis. Med J South Punjab [Internet]. 2026 May 19 [cited 2026 Jun. 23];5(01). Available from: https://www.medteach.org/index.php/mjsp/article/view/375