Thiostrepton
Thiostrepton is a thiopeptide antibiotic primarily used in veterinary medicine, particularly as a topical treatment for mastitis in dairy cattle. It demonstrates antibacterial activity against certain Gram-positive bacteria. While it has been studied for potential applications in human medicine, its clinical use remains limited due to solubility and absorption challenges.
Thiostrepton is a veterinary antibiotic mainly used to treat mastitis in dairy cattle, with activity against Gram-positive bacteria.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 1365970
- Generic
- Thiostrepton
- Class
- unclassified
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- topical
- Forms
- ointment
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Thiostrepton is primarily used in veterinary medicine for the topical treatment of mastitis in dairy cattle. It has also been investigated for potential applications in human medicine, including anticancer properties, though these uses remain experimental.
Thiostrepton exerts its antibacterial effects by inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis. It binds to the 50S ribosomal subunit and specifically interacts with the ribosomal L11 protein, blocking the elongation phase of translation.
Thiostrepton is primarily a veterinary medication and is not commonly used in human clinical practice. Its poor solubility and systemic absorption limit its applications to topical formulations. As an unclassified antibiotic, it represents a unique class of thiopeptide compounds.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 20, 2026. · Read our editorial policy