Antitrichomonal agent

Antitrichomonal agents are a class of pharmaceutical drugs used in the treatment of trichomoniasis, a sexually transmitted infection caused by the parasite Trichomonas vaginalis. These agents work by inhibiting the growth and reproduction of the parasite, thereby treating the infection.

Mechanism of Action

Antitrichomonal agents work by disrupting the DNA of the Trichomonas vaginalis parasite. They are prodrugs that, once inside the parasite, are reduced by ferredoxin or another nitroreductase to create reactive species that can damage the DNA and other critical cellular structures of the parasite.

Types of Antitrichomonal Agents

The most commonly used antitrichomonal agent is metronidazole, a nitroimidazole antibiotic. Another nitroimidazole, tinidazole, is also used, particularly in cases where metronidazole is not effective or cannot be used due to allergy or intolerance. Other drugs, such as secnidazole and ornidazole, are used less frequently.

Side Effects

Like all drugs, antitrichomonal agents can have side effects. These can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and a metallic taste in the mouth. In rare cases, more serious side effects such as neuropathy or seizures can occur.

Resistance

Resistance to antitrichomonal agents, particularly metronidazole, is a growing concern. This resistance is often due to the overuse or misuse of these drugs. Strategies to combat resistance include the development of new drugs and the use of combination therapy.

See Also

• Trichomoniasis
• Metronidazole
• Tinidazole
• Secnidazole
• Ornidazole