Artemisinin-Based Combination Therapy: Emerging Evidence for Therapeutic Applications in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Otieno Karanja J.

Faculty of Medicine Kampala International University Uganda

ABSTRACT

Artemisinin and its derivatives, traditionally employed as antimalarial agents, had demonstrated pleiotropic biological activities including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and metabolic regulatory properties. Recent preclinical investigations suggested potential therapeutic applications beyond parasitic diseases, particularly in metabolic disorders. This review critically evaluated the current evidence regarding the effectiveness of artemisinin-based combination therapies in managing type 2 diabetes mellitus in adult populations, examining molecular mechanisms, experimental findings, and clinical implications. A comprehensive literature search of PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases was conducted for peer-reviewed studies published between 2014 and 2025 investigating artemisinin compounds and metabolic effects relevant to type 2 diabetes. Preclinical studies demonstrated that artemisinin derivatives modulate glucose homeostasis through multiple mechanisms including enhancement of pancreatic beta-cell function, improvement of insulin sensitivity via AMPK activation, reduction of hepatic gluconeogenesis, modulation of inflammatory pathways, and mitigation of oxidative stress. Animal models consistently showed reduced fasting glucose, improved glucose tolerance, and decreased insulin resistance following artemisinin administration. Limited human studies suggest potential glycemic benefits, though robust clinical trial data remain scarce. Combination approaches with conventional antidiabetic agents show synergistic effects in experimental models. However, significant gaps exist regarding optimal dosing, long-term safety, and translation of preclinical findings to clinical practice. While preclinical evidence supported potential antidiabetic properties of artemisinin-based therapies, current clinical evidence is insufficient to recommend routine use in type 2 diabetes management. Rigorous randomized controlled trials are urgently needed to establish efficacy, safety, and therapeutic positioning.

Keywords: Artemisinin, Type 2 diabetes mellitus, Glucose homeostasis, Insulin sensitivity, Metabolic therapy.

 

CITE AS: Otieno Karanja J. (2026). Artemisinin-Based Combination Therapy: Emerging Evidence for Therapeutic Applications in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. IDOSR JOURNAL OF BIOLOGY, CHEMISTRY AND PHARMACY 11(1):1-7. https://doi.org/10.59298/IDOSR/JBCP/26/102.1700