Sodium artesunate-induced diuresis in a patient with malaria.

Sodium artesunate is used in the treatment of malaria. We report a case of sodium artesunate induced diuresis and natriuresis in a patient with malaria. Following artesunate administration there was polyuria accompanied by natriuresis that was reversed after discontinuation of artesunate treatment. The diuretic effect of artesunate can modify the course of renal failure in severe malaria. Prescribers should be aware of this effect of artesunate, so that it can be used judiciously and to the advantage of patients with severe malaria.