Sulfamazine

Sulfamazine is a sulfonamide antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections. It is a synthetic antimicrobial agent that has been employed since the early era of sulfonamide therapy.

Its mechanism is to competitively inhibit dihydropteroate synthase, an enzyme in bacterial folate synthesis, resulting in inhibition of DNA synthesis. It is generally bacteriostatic.

Sulfamazine has a broad spectrum of activity against many Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. It has historically been used to treat urinary tract infections, gastrointestinal infections, and certain skin and respiratory infections. The agent is sometimes used in combination regimens with other antimicrobials.

Adverse effects are similar to other sulfonamides and may include hypersensitivity reactions, rash, fever, photosensitivity, and crystalluria leading to kidney stones. Rare but serious effects include hematologic reactions, liver injury, or severe skin eruptions. Caution is advised in patients with sulfa allergy; use is generally avoided in late pregnancy and in newborns.

Resistance to sulfonamides is widespread, and sulfamazine is used less commonly today in many countries, having been largely supplanted by newer agents. When present, it is typically used under medical supervision with consideration of local resistance patterns.