taurolidine

Taurolidine is a synthetic broad-spectrum antimicrobial and anti-endotoxin agent derived from the amino acid taurine. Its mechanism of action involves the slow release of active methylol derivatives that chemically react with bacterial cell wall components (peptidoglycans) and neutralize bacterial toxins (endotoxins and exotoxins) through cross-linking. Unlike traditional antibiotics, taurolidine acts via a chemical reaction rather than a specific metabolic pathway, which minimizes the risk of developing bacterial resistance. Beyond its antimicrobial properties, taurolidine has demonstrated anti-neoplastic activity, particularly in glioblastoma and other solid tumors, by inducing apoptosis and inhibiting angiogenesis. It is widely used as a catheter lock solution to prevent catheter-related bloodstream infections (CRBSI) and has been investigated for the treatment of peritonitis and various cancers.

Brand names

TaurolinTauroSeptTauroLock

Other names

Bis(1,1-dioxoperhydro-1,2,4-thiadiazin-4-yl)methaneTaurolidinum