Nifurtimox

**Semantic type:** Pharmacologic Substance

**Definition:** A nitrofuran derivative with antiprotozoal and potential antineoplastic activities. Nifurtimox is reduced by cytosol enzymes or flavin-containing microsomal enzymes to a highly reactive nitro anion free radical; autooxidation of the nitro anion free radical generates cytotoxic superoxide anion (02-). In addition, nifurtimox-derived nitro anion free radicals may alkylate macromolecules such as nucleic acids and proteins, resulting in the disruption of their structure and function.

**Synonyms:** - 4-((5-Nitrofurfurylidene)amino)-3-methylthiomorpholine-1,1-dioxide - BAY 2502 - BAYER 2502 - Lampit - NIFURTIMOX