Mel B toxicity in human trypanosomiasis in the Gboko endemic area of Nigeria.

Nine cases of Mel B (a melaminyl arsenical used in treating sleeping sickness patients who have developed central nervous system involvement) treated patients who developed reactions to the drug are described. They all developed high temperatures, pyrexia, diarrhoea, vomitting or itching and some had convulsions. Three of the nine described patients died. It is recommended that extra care and caution is needed while treating patients with Mel B.