Definition

A type of organic compound that contains sulfur and nitrogen, often used in medications known as sulfa drugs.

Example

Doctors sometimes prescribe sulfonamides to treat bacterial infections.

Conversation

Have you heard about the new class on sulfonamide drugs?

Yeah, I read that they're actually quite important in medicine.

Exactly! I didn't realize how many infections they can treat with sulfonamide.

It's pretty fascinating how chemistry plays such a big role in healthcare.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Sulfonamide is formed from "sulfon-" (derived from sulfur, meaning a chemical element) and "amide" (from Latin "amida", meaning a compound derived from ammonia). The word refers to a class of compounds that contain sulfur and an amide group, commonly used in medicinal chemistry.

Memory Tip

Think of 'sulfur' as the key element in 'sulfon-' and 'amide' as a compound related to ammonia, which helps you remember that sulfonamide is a compound containing sulfur and an amide group.

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