Benznidazole (BZ)

Benznidazole is an antiparasitic medication used in the treatment of Chagas disease. Its mechanism of action is the production of free radicals, to which the Trypanosoma cruzi is particularly sensitive given its reduced detoxification capabilities. Roche donated the technology and rights to produce benznidazole to the Brazilian government. Benznidazole has a significant activity during the acute phase of the disease, with a therapeutical success rate of up to 80%. Its curative capabilities during the chronic phase are, however, limited. Benznidazole has proven to be effective in the treatment of reactivated T. cruzi infections caused by immunosuppression, such as AIDS patients or those under immunosuppressive therapy related to organ transplants. The side effects most commonly associated with benznidazole therapy are rash and gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea.