Sulfonamides, also known as sulfa drugs, are a group of synthetic antibiotics that were first discovered in the 1930s. They are used to treat a wide range of bacterial infections, such as urinary tract infections, bronchitis, and pneumonia.
How do Sulfonamides work?
Sulfonamides work by interfering with the synthesis of folic acid in bacteria. Folic acid is essential for the bacteria to produce DNA and RNA, which are necessary for their growth and reproduction. By inhibiting the production of folic acid, sulfonamides effectively stop the bacteria from multiplying, allowing the body's immune system to eliminate the infection.
Common Sulfonamides
Sulfamethoxazole
Sulfadiazine
Sulfasalazine
Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SMX)
Uses of Sulfonamides
Sulfonamides are used to treat various bacterial infections, including: