Diloxanide Furoate
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.
Diloxanide Furoate Uses
Primary UsesÂ
- 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.
- 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.
- Combination Therapy
- Often used in combination with other anti-amoebic drugs for synergistic effects, improving cure rates and minimizing drug resistance.
Secondary UsesÂ
- Research Applications
- Used as a reference compound in parasitology and pharmacology research to study anti-amoebic mechanisms and drug resistance.
- Veterinary Use (Limited)
Occasionally applied off-label in veterinary medicine for protozoal infections in animals, though human pharmaceutical grade predominates.
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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
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 Measures:
- 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 COâ‚‚ extinguishers
- Special Precautions: Firefighters should wear protective equipment and respiratory protection
Decomposition Products: May emit hydrogen chloride and other toxic gases upon combustion