Spiramycin

Spiramycin is a macrolide antibiotic and antiparasitic that is derived from the actinobacterium Streptomyces ambofaciens. It was first discovered in 1954 and is primarily used in the treatment of toxoplasmosis and various bacterial infections.

History

Spiramycin was first isolated in 1954 from the fermentation broth of Streptomyces ambofaciens, a species of actinobacteria. The discovery of spiramycin marked a significant advancement in the field of antibiotics, as it was one of the first macrolide antibiotics to be discovered.

Medical Uses

Spiramycin is primarily used in the treatment of toxoplasmosis, a parasitic disease caused by the protozoan Toxoplasma gondii. It is also used to treat a variety of bacterial infections, including streptococcal infections, staphylococcal infections, and respiratory tract infections.

Mechanism of Action

Spiramycin works by inhibiting protein synthesis in bacteria, thereby preventing their growth and reproduction. It binds to the 50S subunit of the bacterial ribosome, blocking the exit of the growing peptide chain.

Side Effects

Common side effects of spiramycin include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. In rare cases, it can cause allergic reactions and liver damage.

Pharmacokinetics

Spiramycin is well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract and is widely distributed throughout the body. It is metabolized in the liver and excreted in the bile and urine.

See Also

• Macrolide
• Toxoplasmosis
• Streptomyces ambofaciens