Definition of Sulfonamides

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Sulfonamides: The sulfa-related group of antibiotics, which are used to treat bacterial infection and some fungal infections.

The sulfonamide family includes sulfadiazine, sulfamethizole (brand name: Thiosulfil Forte), sulfamethoxazole (Gantanol), sulfasalazine (Azulfidine), sulfisoxazole (Gantrisin), and various high-strength combinations of three sulfonamides.

Sulfa drugs kill bacteria and fungi by interfering with cell metabolism. They were the wonder drugs before penicillin and are still used today. Because sulfa drugs concentrate in the urine before being excreted, treating urinary tract infections is one of their most common uses.

Sulfa drugs can have a number of potentially dangerous interactions with prescription and over-the-counter drugs (including PABA sunscreens), and are not appropriate for patients with some health conditions. Be sure your doctor knows about any other medications you take and your full health history before taking sulfonamides.