Nitrofurans are synthetic broad-spectrum antibiotics.
There are four parent compounds that comprise the nitrofuran class: furazolidone, furaltadone, nitrofurazone, and nitrofurantoin.
The defining structural component is a furan ring with a nitro group.
Key features ofNitrofurans:
These are synthetic chemotherapeutic agents with a broad antimicrobial spectrum.
They are active against both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, including Salmonella and Giardia spp, trichomonads, amebae, and some coccidial species.
They are much more active in acidic environments (a pH of 5.5 is optimal for nitrofurantoin activity).
They are primarily bacteriostatic, but at high doses they are also bactericidal.
These were once widely used in poultry, pigs, shrimp and other livestock because they are cheap and highly effective.
Impacts on human health:
Carcinogenic potential: Some nitrofurans have shown carcinogenic effects in animal studies
Toxicity concerns: Potential toxicity and side effects in humans, particularly with prolonged use or high doses.
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