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ECHA InfoCard | 100.001.480 |
Chemical and physical data | |
Formula | C17H13N3O5S2 |
Molar mass | 403.43 g·mol−1 |
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Phthalylsulfathiazole (also known as sulfathalidine) [1] is a sulfonamide broad-spectrum antimicrobial used primarily for treating gastrointestinal infections. [2] [3]
Phthalylsulfathiazole is indicated for treating various intestinal conditions, including dysentery, colitis, gastroenteritis, and for preoperative preparation in intestinal surgery. [2] [4] It may be administered in combination with other antimicrobials such as metronidazole, furazolidone, or neomycin for enhanced efficacy. [3]
Like all antibiotics, phthalylsulfathiazole should be carefully monitored to avoid promoting bacterial resistance. [3]
Phthalylsulfathiazole is typically given orally in tablet form to target intestinal infections directly. [2] Due to the phthalic acid substitution on the aniline nitrogen, it remains unabsorbed in the bloodstream, focusing its action within the gut. [5]
Common side effects include nausea, stomach upset, and skin rash. [6] Rare but serious adverse effects may involve vitamin B deficiency, agranulocytosis, or aplastic anemia. [7]
Phthalylsulfathiazole acts by competitive antagonism with para-aminobenzoic acid, inhibiting the dihydropteroate synthetase enzyme crucial for dihydrofolic acid synthesis. This inhibition disrupts purine and pyrimidine synthesis, impairing bacterial growth and reproduction. [8] Once in the large intestine, phthalylsulfathiazole hydrolyzes to release sulfathiazole, the active antimicrobial component. [9]