Sulfones

Definition

Sulfones are a class of synthetic antimicrobial agents primarily used to treat mycobacterial infections such as leprosy. They inhibit the synthesis of dihydrofolic acid by competing with para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA) in bacteria.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Sulfones are most commonly used in the treatment of leprosy and dermatitis herpetiformis.
2. They work by interfering with folate synthesis, crucial for bacterial DNA replication and cell division.
3. Dapsone is the most well-known sulfone antibiotic.
4. Resistance to sulfones can develop through changes in the bacterial target enzyme, dihydropteroate synthase.
5. Sulfones can have side effects, including hemolysis in patients with glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency.

Review Questions

• What is the primary mechanism of action for sulfones?
• For which bacterial infection are sulfones most commonly prescribed?
• What is a significant side effect associated with sulfone administration?

Related terms

Dapsone: A sulfone drug commonly used to treat leprosy.

Folate Synthesis Inhibitors: A class of drugs that interfere with the production of folic acid in bacteria.

Glucose-6-phosphate Dehydrogenase Deficiency (G6PD): A genetic condition that can cause hemolytic anemia when exposed to certain medications, including sulfones.