Classification and Chemical Structure
Nitrofural (Furacilinum, well-known trade name Furacilin) belongs to the class of synthetic antimicrobial agents. The chemical structure of the entire group is based on a furan ring. An essential element ensuring pharmacological activity is the presence of a nitro group ($-NO_2$) at the C5 position. The specificity of a particular drug is determined by the radical (substituent) at the C2 position.
Based on its physicochemical properties, nitrofural is considered a representative of the dye group, which determines its high surface activity upon contact with tissues and microbial cells.
Pharmacological Effects
The drug is the most sought-after antiseptic in its class. Its main clinical feature is that, despite its pronounced antimicrobial action, it does not irritate tissues.
In addition to directly suppressing pathogenic microflora, nitrofural has a trophic effect — it actively stimulates regeneration processes, accelerating the healing of damaged mucous membranes, skin, and wound surfaces.
Indications for Use
Nitrofural is used in various fields of clinical medicine for the treatment and prevention of infectious-inflammatory and purulent diseases:
- Surgery: irrigation of infected wounds, sanitation of serous and joint cavities, complex treatment of osteomyelitis.
- Otolaryngology (ENT): treatment of purulent otitis media, gargling for tonsillitis and pharyngitis.
- Dentistry: local treatment of stomatitis and gingivitis (mouth rinsing).
- Ophthalmology: treatment of conjunctivitis (as eye drops) and blepharitis.
- Toxicology: specific application — intravenous administration as an antidote for acute cyanide poisoning.
Formulations and Routes of Administration
The choice of pharmaceutical formulation depends on the localization of the inflammatory process:
- For preparing solutions: powder or 0.2 g tablets are used. The standard aqueous solution is prepared in a 1:5000 ratio (used for washing wounds, cavities, and rinsing the mouth and throat).
- Ready-made solutions: in addition to aqueous solutions, a 1:1500 alcoholic solution is used (often prescribed externally for purulent otitis media).
- 0.2% Ointment: used for external application to affected areas.
- For oral administration: 0.1 g tablets are available.
Prescription Examples
Prescribing tablets for self-preparation of an aqueous solution (e.g., for gargling):
Rp.: Tab. Furacilini 0,2 pro prepar. solutionum N. 10 D.S. Dissolve 1 tablet in 1000 ml of water (to obtain a 1:5000 solution), use for wound irrigation.
Prescribing a ready-made alcoholic solution (e.g., in ENT practice):
Rp.: Sol. Furacilini spirituosae 1:1500 — 20 ml D.S. External use. 3–4 drops into the ear for purulent otitis media.