Impact of Rectal Artesunate on Haematological Parameters of Children of Ogun State, South-Western Nigeria

Impact of Rectal Artesunate on haematological parameters was assessed in 905 children below the age of 5 years. Grid systematic method was employed in selecting sixteen study centres from 8 Local Government Areas of Ogun State. Ethical approvals were obtained in addition to interactive sessions with parents of the children and PHCs medical practitioners. Drug was administered at a dose of 5 to 10mg/kg of the body weight per rectum at 0 hour, 24 hours and 48 hours. Data obtained were analyzed using SPSS version 20 to assess association with p-value of < 0.05. Impact of Rectal Artesunate was monitored by analysing blood samples taken at 0 hour, 24 hours and 48 hours for Packed Cells Volume (PCV) and Haemoglobin concentration (Hb). There was a significant (p < 0.05) increase in baseline PCV (L/L) and Hb (g/L) during 48 hours across the LGAs. Parasitaemia (MPC/µl) in children has a significant (p < 0.05) association with anaemia (PCV and Hb) and was positively correlated (r = +0.348 and r =+ 0.201). A significant (p < 0.05) difference observed between MCV (fl), MCH (pg) and MCHC (g/L) at 0 hour and MCV (fl), MCH (pg) and MCHC (g/L) at 48 hours. More awareness on the use of Rectal Artesunate in reducing anaemia due to malaria in children should be created since it is highly effective antimalarial suppository.