API Erythromycin Thiocyanate

Erythromycin More Info

Erythromycin Thiocyanate (also known as Erythrocin Thiocyanate) is a thiocyanate-containing macrolide antibiotic. It was discovered in 1952 from Saccharopolyspora erythraea (formerly Streptomyces erythraeus) and has a broad spectrum of antimicrobial activity. Below is a detailed introduction to it:

Chemical Properties

It appears as a white or almost white powder that is slightly hygroscopic. Its molecular formula is C37H67NO13·HSCN, with a molecular weight of 793.02. Its CAS number is 7704-67-8.

Mechanism of Action

Erythromycin Thiocyanate exerts its antibacterial effect by binding to the 50S ribosomal subunit of bacteria. This binding inhibits protein synthesis by blocking the transpeptidation and/or translocation reactions during the process of RNA-dependent protein synthesis, without affecting nucleic acid synthesis. Resistance to erythromycin is often attributed to mutations in 50S rRNA, which prevent erythromycin binding and allow the cell to synthesize proteins error-free. Erythromycin Thiocyanate also acts as a splicing inhibitor of eukaryotic nuclear pre-mRNA, almost completely inhibiting the formation of the splicing-active C complex.

Antibacterial Spectrum

It is effective against Gram-positive bacteria such as Streptococci, Staphylococci, Clostridia, and Corynebacteria spp., and some Gram-negative bacteria like Pasteurella and Haemophilus spp. It is also effective against Mycoplasma spp. Its antibacterial spectrum is similar to that of benzylpenicillin, and it is effective against penicillin-resistant staphylococci.

Clinical Applications

In humans, it is used to treat infections caused by susceptible organisms, such as respiratory tract infections (e.g., bronchitis, pneumonia), skin and soft tissue infections, and infections caused by Mycoplasma. It is also used in the treatment of acne.

In veterinary medicine, it is used to treat and prevent respiratory and intestinal infections in animals caused by microorganisms susceptible to erythromycin. For example, it is effective in treating Chronic Respiratory Disease (CRD) caused by Mycoplasma in poultry, Pasteurella infections, Salmonella infections, and in preventing respiratory syndrome secondary to stressors such as vaccination or transport. It is also used in the treatment of infections in calves and poultry, such as colibacillosis, salmonellosis, fowl cholera, mycoplasmosis, necrotic enteritis, and pneumonia.

Routes of Administration

It can be administered orally via drinking water or mixed with feed. For example, for poultry, the recommended dosage is 1g per liter of drinking water for 3–5 days. When mixed with drinking water, the product should be used within 24 hours. For calves and pigs, the dosage and administration are adjusted according to their body weight and water consumption.

Side Effects

At the recommended dosage, it generally does not show significant side effects. Rarely, it may cause gastrointestinal disturbances such as diarrhea or abdominal pain. In some cases, it may lead to neurotoxicity or hypersensitivity reactions.

Contraindications

It should not be used in animals hypersensitive to erythromycin or macrolides. It is also contraindicated in animals with severe hepatic or renal impairment. Additionally, it should not be administered concurrently with other macrolide antibiotics or with bacteriostatic antimicrobials.

Storage

It should be stored in a cool, dark, and dry place, away from light and heat. The storage temperature should generally not exceed 25°C, and freezing should be avoided.

Other Applications and Research

In research, Erythromycin Thiocyanate has shown antitumor and neuroprotective effects in some fields. For example, it has been found to inhibit the growth of certain tumor cells and may have potential applications in cancer treatment. Additionally, some studies suggest that it may have neuroprotective effects, offering potential benefits for neurodegenerative diseases.

Precautions and Drug Interactions

It is advisable to establish the susceptibility of the causative microorganisms before initiating treatment. Severe cases may require parenteral administration. When using it in combination with other drugs, attention should be paid to potential interactions. For instance, it should not be used with chloramphenicol, tylosin, or lincosamides. In animals, it should not be used with polymixins, aminoglycosides, or tetracyclines.