Fusidine
[CAS# 6990-06-3]

Identification

• Classification: API >> Antibiotics >> Other antibiotics
• Name: Fusidine
• Synonyms: Fusidic acid; 16-(Acetyloxy)-3,11-dihydroxy-29-nordammara-17(20),24-dien-21-oic acid; (3a,4a,8a,9b,11a,13a,14b,16b,17Z)-16-(Acetyloxy)-3,11-dihydroxy-29-Nordammara-17(20),24-dien-21-oic acid
• Molecular Formula: C₃₁H₄₈O₆
• Molecular Weight: 516.72
• CAS Registry Number: 6990-06-3
• EC Number: 230-256-0
• SMILES: C[C@H]1[C@@H]2CC[C@]3([C@H]([C@]2(CC[C@H]1O)C)[C@@H](C[C@@H]\4[C@@]3(C[C@@H](/C4=C(/CCC=C(C)C)\C(=O)O)OC(=O)C)C)O)C

Properties

• Melting point: 192 ºC

Safety Data

• Hazard Symbols: GHS07;GHS09 Warning
• Hazard Statements: H302-H315-H319-H335-H411
• Precautionary Statements: P261-P264-P264+P265-P270-P271-P273-P280-P301+P317-P302+P352-P304+P340-P305+P351+P338-P319-P321-P330-P332+P317-P337+P317-P362+P364-P391-P403+P233-P405-P501

Hazard Classification

Hazard	Class	Category Code	Hazard Statement
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	4	H302
Specific target organ toxicity - single exposure	STOT SE	3	H335
Skin irritation	Skin Irrit.	2	H315
Eye irritation	Eye Irrit.	2	H319
Chronic hazardous to the aquatic environment	Aquatic Chronic	2	H411
Chronic hazardous to the aquatic environment	Aquatic Chronic	3	H412

Discovory and Applicatios

Fusidine, also known as fusidic acid, is a steroidal antibiotic first isolated in the early 1960s from the fungus Fusidium coccineum. This discovery was part of a broader effort to identify new antimicrobial agents effective against resistant bacterial strains. Fusidine's unique steroidal structure, distinct from other antibiotics, provided a new mechanism of action. The compound was isolated using fermentation techniques and its structure was elucidated through various spectroscopic methods, including nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and mass spectrometry (MS). Since its discovery, fusidine has been recognized for its potent antibacterial properties, particularly against Gram-positive bacteria.

Fusidine is primarily used as an antibacterial agent. It is particularly effective against Gram-positive bacteria, including *Staphylococcus aureus*, which is responsible for a range of infections from minor skin conditions to severe systemic infections. Fusidine's mechanism of action involves inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis by targeting elongation factor G, a crucial component in the bacterial ribosome. This makes it a valuable treatment option for infections caused by antibiotic-resistant strains, such as methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA).

Fusidine is commonly formulated in topical creams and ointments for treating skin infections, such as impetigo, folliculitis, and infected wounds. Its effectiveness and minimal systemic absorption make it suitable for localized treatment, reducing the risk of systemic side effects and resistance development. Fusidine's topical formulations are widely used in both clinical and outpatient settings, providing a targeted approach to managing skin infections.

To enhance its effectiveness and broaden its spectrum of action, fusidine is often used in combination with other antibiotics. This approach helps prevent the emergence of resistance and allows for the treatment of mixed bacterial infections. Combination therapies involving fusidine are particularly useful in managing chronic infections and those that are difficult to treat with a single antibiotic.

Fusidine's antibacterial properties extend to ophthalmology, where it is used to treat bacterial eye infections such as conjunctivitis. Fusidic acid eye drops are effective in eradicating the bacteria responsible for these infections while being gentle on the sensitive tissues of the eye.

The unique properties of fusidine continue to be of interest in medical research. Studies are ongoing to explore its potential applications in new formulations and its efficacy against emerging resistant bacterial strains. Additionally, research into the pharmacokinetics and dynamics of fusidine helps improve its clinical applications and develop better therapeutic strategies.