Furazolidone as an Important Drug for Helicobacter Pylori Eradication

Abstract

Furazolidone (FZD), a nitrofuran derivative, is an antibacterial agent in use by the medical and veterinary fields. The Chinese have utilized FZD to relieve stomach pain, 5 years before the discovery of Helicobacter pylori. This drug is currently a part of Helicobacter pylori's eradication regimen. However, some carcinogenic and toxic adverse effects associated with FZD have been observed in animal experiments with controversial results, but there is no evidence to support the presence of these adverse effects in humans at a therapeutic dosage. The side effects of FZD can additionally be avoided by shortening its treatment period to 5-7 days. In Europe and North America FZD is not a first line regimen for the treatment of Helicobacter pylori but it is usually used as rescue treatment. In less developed or low-income countries, the FZD-based regimen has been recommended as a first line regimen by the World Gastroenterology Organization. In Iran, FZD when compared to clarithromycin is more effective, less expensive and has better availability.