High Quality 50% & 95% Purity White Powder Natamycin CAS7681-93-8 Food Preservative

Natamycin More Info

Natamycin, also known as pimaricin, is a macrolide antifungal medication primarily used to treat fungal infections, particularly in the ophthalmic field. 

Mechanism of Action

Natamycin exerts its antifungal effects through the following mechanisms:
Binding to Ergosterol: Natamycin specifically binds to ergosterol, a key sterol component of fungal cell membranes. This binding disrupts the integrity of the membrane, leading to impaired cell function.
Inhibition of Nutrient Transport: By binding to ergosterol, natamycin inhibits amino acid and glucose transport proteins in the fungal plasma membrane. This results in a loss of nutrient transport and ultimately contributes to cell death.
Fungicidal Activity: Natamycin exhibits fungicidal properties against a wide range of fungi, including yeasts and filamentous fungi such as Candida, Aspergillus, Fusarium, and Penicillium species.

Applications

Natamycin is primarily used for:
Ophthalmic Infections: It is approved for treating fungal infections around the eye, including:
Mycotic Keratitis: An infection of the cornea.
Fungal Blepharitis: Infection of the eyelids.
Fungal Conjunctivitis: Infection of the conjunctiva.
Food Preservation: Natamycin is also used as a food preservative due to its antifungal properties, particularly in dairy products and processed foods.

Routes of Administration

Natamycin can be administered through several routes:
Topical Ophthalmic Administration: The primary route for treating eye infections. It is usually provided as a 5% suspension that is instilled into the conjunctival sac.
Food Additive: Used as a preservative in food products; however, it is not indicated for oral administration in humans.