What is Furazolidone?
Furazolidone is an antibacterial medication used to treat and prevent gastrointestinal infections, including diarrhea and dysentery, caused by susceptible bacteria such as Escherichia coli (E. coli), Salmonella, Shigella, and Campylobacter. It works by inhibiting bacterial RNA synthesis, ultimately disrupting the bacterial cell’s ability to produce essential proteins. Furazolidone is typically administered orally in the form of tablets or syrup. The exact mechanism of action and pharmacological properties of furazolidone are similar to other antibacterial agents in its class.
What is Furazolidone used for?
Furazolidone is an antibiotic medication that belongs to the class of compounds known as thiazoles. It was introduced in the 1950s as a broad-spectrum antimicrobial agent effective against bacteria, protozoa, and some viruses. Furazolidone works by inhibiting the growth and multiplication of microorganisms by interfering with their metabolic processes. The drug is particularly effective against certain types of bacteria that are susceptible to its action.
Furazolidone has been used in various clinical settings to treat infections caused by susceptible organisms. In veterinary medicine, it was commonly used to treat urinary tract infections, diarrhea, and other bacterial infections in animals. However, the use of furazolidone has declined over the years due to concerns about resistance development and potential side effects. Despite this, the drug remains a useful therapeutic option for specific types of infections and continues to be studied for its potential uses in modern medicine. As with any antibiotic medication, the proper dosage and administration of furazolidone should be guided by healthcare professionals to ensure safe and effective treatment.
Furazolidone side effects
- Abdominal pain
- Allergic reactions (hives, itching, swelling)
- Anemia
- Black or bloody stools
- Blood in urine
- Bone marrow depression
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Ear infections
- Eye problems (blurred vision, sensitivity to light)
- Headache
- Hair loss
- Increased appetite
- Insomnia
- Itching skin
- Liver damage
- Lymphoma
- Nausea and vomiting
- Numbness or tingling sensation in face and extremities
- Pharyngitis (sore throat)
- Rash
- Seizures
- Shortness of breath
- Stomach cramps
- Thirst increase
- Weakness
Disclaimer
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