Sulfonamides (Sulfa Drugs)
A large group of synthetic drugs used to treat bacterial infections derived from a red dye (sulfanilamide). Drugs in this class prevent the growth of bacteria (bacteriostatic); they do not kill bacteria (bactericidal).
Given by mouth, these drugs are effective against a wide variety of infections such as URINARY TRACT INFECTION. Most (including sulfamethoxazole and sulfaphenazole) are quickly absorbed from the stomach and small intestine and should be taken at regular intervals. Others are long-acting (such as sulfadoxine, used to treat leprosy and MALARIA) and only need to be taken once a day.
Side effects may include anemia or jaundice, especially if taken for longer than 10 days. More severe side effects include blood disorders, skin rashes, and fever. These drugs are not given during the last trimester of pregnancy or to young babies because of the risk of MENTAL RETARDATION. The drugs are prescribed with caution to patients with kidney or liver problems. In general, patients using these drugs should avoid exposure to direct sunlight.
Given by mouth, these drugs are effective against a wide variety of infections such as URINARY TRACT INFECTION. Most (including sulfamethoxazole and sulfaphenazole) are quickly absorbed from the stomach and small intestine and should be taken at regular intervals. Others are long-acting (such as sulfadoxine, used to treat leprosy and MALARIA) and only need to be taken once a day.
Side effects may include anemia or jaundice, especially if taken for longer than 10 days. More severe side effects include blood disorders, skin rashes, and fever. These drugs are not given during the last trimester of pregnancy or to young babies because of the risk of MENTAL RETARDATION. The drugs are prescribed with caution to patients with kidney or liver problems. In general, patients using these drugs should avoid exposure to direct sunlight.
Tags: Blood Disorders, fever, large group of synthetic drugs, skin rashes, Sulfa Drugs, Sulfonamides, treat bacterial infections, URINARY TRACT INFECTION
Posted in Health and Wellness
