Valnemulin

Valnemulin is an antibiotic that belongs to the pleuromutilin class of antibiotics. It is primarily used in veterinary medicine to treat swine dysentery and ileitis, diseases caused by bacteria in pigs.

Etymology

The term "Valnemulin" is derived from the class of antibiotics it belongs to, pleuromutilin, and the specific chemical structure of the compound. The "val" prefix is likely a reference to the valeric acid component of the molecule, while "nemulin" is a derivative of pleuromutilin.

Usage

Valnemulin is used in the treatment of swine dysentery and ileitis, both of which are bacterial infections in pigs. Swine dysentery, caused by Brachyspira hyodysenteriae, is a severe, contagious disease that affects the large intestine of pigs, causing severe diarrhea and weight loss. Ileitis, also known as porcine proliferative enteropathy, is caused by Lawsonia intracellularis and affects the small intestine, causing diarrhea, reduced growth rate, and in severe cases, death.

Valnemulin works by inhibiting the synthesis of bacterial proteins, which are essential for the bacteria's growth and reproduction. This makes it an effective treatment for bacterial infections.

Side Effects

As with all antibiotics, use of valnemulin can lead to the development of antibiotic resistance in bacteria. This is a major concern in both human and veterinary medicine, as it can make infections more difficult to treat. Other potential side effects include digestive disturbances, such as diarrhea and loss of appetite.

Related Terms

• Antibiotic
• Pleuromutilin
• Swine dysentery
• Ileitis
• Brachyspira hyodysenteriae
• Lawsonia intracellularis
• Antibiotic resistance

References

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