Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Sulfones are a class of synthetic antimicrobial agents primarily used to treat mycobacterial infections such as leprosy. They inhibit the synthesis of dihydrofolic acid by competing with para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA) in bacteria.
5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test
Sulfones are most commonly used in the treatment of leprosy and dermatitis herpetiformis.
They work by interfering with folate synthesis, crucial for bacterial DNA replication and cell division.
Dapsone is the most well-known sulfone antibiotic.
Resistance to sulfones can develop through changes in the bacterial target enzyme, dihydropteroate synthase.
Sulfones can have side effects, including hemolysis in patients with glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency.
Folate Synthesis Inhibitors: A class of drugs that interfere with the production of folic acid in bacteria.
Glucose-6-phosphate Dehydrogenase Deficiency (G6PD): A genetic condition that can cause hemolytic anemia when exposed to certain medications, including sulfones.