Sulfathiazole Sodium (CAS 144-74-1) Suppliers and Product Information

Sulfathiazole sodium is a short-acting sulfa drug that acts as a competitive inhibitor of bacterial para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA). It blocks the synthesis of dihydrofolic acid by inhibiting the enzyme dihydropteroate synthase. This antibiotic is active against Gram-positive bacteria, Gram-negative bacteria, and Chlamydia.

While it was once a common oral and topical antibiotic, it is no longer used in humans due to the availability of less toxic alternatives. However, it is still used in laboratory animal diets to inhibit folate formation by gut bacteria, ensuring that the animal's only source of available folate is from their diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the main use of Sulfathiazole sodium?

A: Sulfathiazole sodium is primarily used as an antibiotic that inhibits bacterial growth by interfering with folic acid synthesis. It is no longer used in human medicine but is still employed in laboratory animal research to control gut bacteria and study folate metabolism.

Q: How does Sulfathiazole sodium work?

A: Sulfathiazole sodium works by competitively inhibiting bacterial para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA), which is essential for bacterial folic acid synthesis. It blocks the enzyme dihydropteroate synthase, thereby preventing the formation of dihydrofolic acid, which is crucial for bacterial growth.

Q: What is the solubility of Sulfathiazole sodium?

A: Sulfathiazole sodium is soluble in water, with a solubility of approximately 50mg/mL.

Q: How should Sulfathiazole sodium be stored?

A: Sulfathiazole sodium should be stored at -20°C or 4°C to maintain its stability.