maduramycin

Maduramycin is a polyether antibiotic of the ionophore class used as a veterinary feed additive. It is produced by fermentation with soil-dwelling actinomycetes, including species within the Streptomyces genus in various production strains. As with other polyether ionophores, maduramycin functions by binding cations and transporting them across lipid membranes, disrupting ion gradients and membrane potential in susceptible organisms.

The drug has activity primarily against Gram-positive bacteria and certain protozoa, and is employed as an anticoccidial and growth-promoting additive in livestock. In poultry, maduramycin helps prevent coccidial infections caused by Eimeria species and can improve feed efficiency. In feed formulations, it is typically included as one of several ionophore compounds and is used in various salt forms appropriate for medicated feeds.

Safety and regulation: Because ionophore antibiotics can be toxic to non-target species, exposure and dosing must be carefully controlled. Horses are particularly sensitive to ionophore toxicity, and exposure can lead to cardiomyopathy, weakness, ataxia, and other serious effects. In humans, ingestion is uncommon and typically related to occupational or accidental exposure; proper handling and adherence to safety guidelines are recommended. Regulatory status varies by country, but maduramycin-containing products are approved as veterinary medicines or feed additives in many jurisdictions, subject to specified withdrawal periods for animal-derived products.