MedlinePlus a682204 PubChem CID 5336 Molar mass 249.29 g/mol | CAS Number 144-83-2 DrugBank DB00891 | |
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AHFS/Drugs.com Micromedex Detailed Consumer Information ATC code J01EB04 (WHO) QJ01EQ04 (WHO) | ||
Sulfapyridine, original UK spelling sulphapyridine, is a sulfonamide antibacterial. At one time it was commonly referred to as M&B.
Sulfapyridine is no longer prescribed for treatment of infections in humans. However, it may be used to treat linear IgA disease. It is a good antibacterial drug, but its water solubility is very pH dependent. Thus there is a risk of crystallization within the bladder or urethra, which could lead to pain or blockage. As with other sulfonamides, there is a significant risk of agranulocytosis, and this, rather than the development of resistance by bacteria, is the main reason for its decline in use.
It was discovered by Lionel Whitby at the British firm May & Baker Ltd and logged in their Test Book on 2 November, 1937 under Code No M&B 693.
The drug sulfasalazine is structurally one molecule of mesalamine linked to one molecule of sulfapyridine with an azo bond.
M&B 693 was one of the first generation of sulphonamide antibiotics. It has been reported as the first chemical cure for pneumonia. It could either be taken in tablet form or the powder could be placed in wounds. It was used so widely during the Second World War that May & Baker had difficulty keeping up with demand. It was later largely superseded by penicillin and other sulfonamides.
