maduramicin

Maduramicin is a naturally occurring polyether ionophore antibiotic and antiprotozoal agent used in veterinary medicine, primarily as a prophylactic against coccidiosis in poultry and other livestock. It was first isolated from the actinomycete Actinomadura rubra. Maduramicin acts by forming complexes with monovalent cations (especially potassium), facilitating their transport across protozoal cell membranes. This disrupts ionic gradients, inhibits mitochondrial functions such as substrate oxidation and ATP hydrolysis, increases osmotic pressure within the parasite, and ultimately leads to protozoal cell death. While effective against Eimeria species (the causative agents of coccidiosis), it is highly toxic if misused or ingested by non-target species—including humans—causing cardiac toxicity, skeletal muscle degeneration, rhabdomyolysis, renal failure, and potentially death[1][2][3][5][6]. There is no specific antidote for poisoning.

Brand names

Cygro

Other names

maduramycinmaduramicin ammonium