Diloxanide Furoate

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Diloxanide Furoate is an orally administered antiprotozoal agent used primarily for the treatment of amoebiasis. It is a furan-based derivative that acts as a luminal amoebicide, effectively targeting Entamoeba histolytica cysts and trophozoites within the intestinal lumen. This compound is well-regarded for its efficacy in eradicating asymptomatic cyst carriers and as a follow-up treatment after systemic amoebicidal therapy. Diloxanide Furoate has good oral bioavailability and a favorable safety profile.

Description

Diloxanide Furoate Uses

Primary Uses 

  1. Pharmaceutical Use – Anti-amoebic Agent
  • Used to treat asymptomatic and mild-to-moderate intestinal amoebiasis caused by Entamoeba histolytica.
  • Acts specifically on the luminal stage of the parasite, clearing cysts from the intestinal tract to prevent transmission and relapse.
  • Commonly administered following systemic amoebicides like metronidazole to ensure complete eradication of infection.
  1. Parasitic Infection Control
  • Employed in mass treatment campaigns in endemic regions to reduce amoebiasis prevalence.
  • Utilized for prophylactic purposes in travelers to endemic areas as a preventive therapy against amoebic infections.
  1. Combination Therapy
  • Often used in combination with other anti-amoebic drugs for synergistic effects, improving cure rates and minimizing drug resistance.

Secondary Uses 

  1. Research Applications
  • Used as a reference compound in parasitology and pharmacology research to study anti-amoebic mechanisms and drug resistance.
  1. Veterinary Use (Limited)
  • Occasionally applied off-label in veterinary medicine for protozoal infections in animals, though human pharmaceutical grade predominates.
KEY PRODUCT FEATURES

1. Basic Identification Attributes

  • Chemical Name (IUPAC): 2-(Dichloromethylidene)aminooxy-N-(furan-2-ylmethyl)acetamide
  • Common/Trade Name: Diloxanide Furoate
  • CAS Number: 135-91-3
  • HS Code: 2941.30.00
  • Molecular Formula: C10H8Cl2N2O4
  • Synonyms:
    • Diloxanide Furoate
    • Diloxanide
    • 2,2-Dichloro-N-[(furan-2-yl)methyl]acetamide

2. Physical & Chemical Properties

  • Physical State: Off-white to pale yellow crystalline powder
  • Odor: Odorless to slight characteristic odor
  • Melting Point: Approximately 150–154°C
  • Solubility: Slightly soluble in water; soluble in organic solvents like methanol and ethanol
  • Stability: Stable under recommended storage conditions; sensitive to moisture

3. Safety & Hazard Attributes

  • Hazard Class (GHS): Not classified as hazardous but handle with care
  • Toxicity: Low acute toxicity; avoid ingestion in non-therapeutic doses
  • Exposure Limits: No specific occupational limits; standard precautions apply

4. Storage & Handling Attributes

  • Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture
  • Container Type: Sealed airtight containers or pharmaceutical-grade packaging
  • Shelf Life: Typically 2–3 years if stored properly
  • Handling Precautions: Use gloves and avoid dust inhalation during handling

5. Regulatory & Compliance Attributes

  • Approved by major pharmacopeias (e.g., USP, BP) for pharmaceutical use
  • Included in WHO Essential Medicines List for Amoebiasis
  • Registered under regulatory bodies for human medicinal use

6. Environmental & Health Impact

  • Ecotoxicity: Low; minimal environmental persistence in normal disposal conditions
  • Biodegradability: Expected to degrade under aerobic environmental conditions
  • Bioaccumulation: Not expected
SAFETY HANDLING PRECAUTIONS

Safety Handling Precautions

PPE Required:

  • Gloves (nitrile or latex)
  • Safety goggles
  • Lab coat or protective apron
  • Dust mask if powder handling generates dust

Handling Guidelines:

  • Avoid inhalation of dust and skin contact
  • Use in well-ventilated areas or under fume extraction
  • Prevent contamination of food, feed, and water sources

Storage Masures:

  • Keep container tightly closed and store in a dry environment
  • Protect from moisture and heat
  • Segregate from incompatible substances

Hygiene Practices:

  • Wash hands thoroughly after handling
  • Do not eat, drink, or smoke while handling product
  • Use clean tools and avoid cross-contamination

First Aid Measures

  • Inhalation: Move to fresh air; if respiratory irritation occurs, seek medical attention
  • Skin Contact: Wash affected area with soap and water; seek medical advice if irritation persists
  • Eye Contact: Rinse immediately with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes; consult physician if irritation develops
  • Ingestion: Rinse mouth; do not induce vomiting unless directed by a physician; seek medical care immediately

Firefighting Measures

  • Fire Hazards: Not highly flammable; may decompose on heating emitting toxic fumes
  • Extinguishing Media: Use water spray, foam, dry chemical, or CO₂ extinguishers
  • Special Precautions: Firefighters should wear protective equipment and respiratory protection
  • Decomposition Products: May emit hydrogen chloride and other toxic gases upon combustion