Natamycin is a polyene macrolide antifungal agent, which is widely used in fields such as food and medicine. In order to avoid the problem of drug resistance during its use, the following measures can be taken:
I. Rational Use
Control the dosage: Use natamycin strictly according to the relevant standards and specified dosages, and avoid excessive use. In the food industry, the addition amount should be precisely controlled according to different food types and processing techniques. For example, in the production of cheese, the general addition amount is 20 - 40 mg/kg. Excessive addition not only fails to enhance the anti-corrosion effect but also increases the risk of the emergence of drug-resistant bacteria.
Limit the scope of use: Clearly define the applicable scope of natamycin and do not expand it arbitrarily. In the medical field, it is only used to treat infections caused by sensitive fungi and is not used for prophylactic medication or the treatment of non-sensitive bacteria. In the food field, use it according to the food categories specified in the national standards, such as in pastries, mooncakes and other foods, and do not add it to foods that have not been approved.
Avoid long-term continuous use: Whether in food preservation or medical treatment, long-term continuous use of natamycin should be avoided. In food processing, a combination of multiple preservation technologies can be adopted, such as low-temperature storage and modified atmosphere packaging, etc., to reduce the dependence on natamycin. In medical treatment, according to the patient's condition and treatment effect, adjust the treatment plan in a timely manner, and avoid using natamycin alone for long-term treatment.
II. Monitoring and Management
Establish a drug resistance monitoring system: In food processing enterprises and medical institutions, regularly monitor the drug resistance of natamycin in relevant environments, food samples, and patient infection strains. Through monitoring, the emergence and transmission trends of drug-resistant bacteria can be detected in a timely manner, providing a basis for adjusting the use strategy.
Standardize the use process: Formulate strict operation specifications and management systems for the use of natamycin. In food processing enterprises, operators need to receive professional training and add natamycin strictly according to the standard operation process. In medical institutions, doctors should reasonably issue natamycin prescriptions according to clinical guidelines and the specific situation of patients to avoid abuse.
III. Combined Use
Combine with other antibacterial agents: Combine natamycin with other antibacterial agents with different mechanisms of action. For example, in food preservation, natamycin can be combined with potassium sorbate, nisin, etc. Through the synergistic effect of different antibacterial agents, the antibacterial effect can be enhanced, and at the same time, the dosage of each antibacterial agent can be reduced, reducing the possibility of drug resistance. In the medical field, natamycin can also be combined with other antifungal drugs according to the patient's condition, but attention should be paid to the interactions between drugs.
Combine with physical sterilization methods: In the food processing process, the use of natamycin can be combined with physical sterilization methods such as ultraviolet sterilization and microwave sterilization. First, use physical methods to kill part of the microorganisms, and then use natamycin for anti-corrosion and preservation. In this way, the dosage of natamycin can be reduced, thereby reducing the chance of the emergence of drug-resistant bacteria.