Description and Brand Names

Drug information provided by: Merative, Micromedex®

Descriptions


Suramin is used in the treatment of African sleeping sickness (African trypanosomiasis) and river blindness (onchocerciasis), infections caused by parasites. This medicine works by causing the parasites to lose energy, which causes their death.

Suramin may cause serious side effects. Before you begin treatment with this medicine, you and your doctor should talk about the good this medicine will do as well as the risks of receiving it.

Suramin is administered in the hospital only by or under the immediate supervision of your doctor.

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Portions of this document last updated: Feb. 01, 2023