Colistin is a unique sparingly soluble cyclic polypeptide antibiotic known as polymyxin E. Colistin has been found to be effective against carbapenem resistant Enterobacteriaceae or CRE. CRE is a "superbug" which possesses NDM-1 or KPC genes which encode New Delhi Metallo-beta-lacamase or Klebsiella pneumoniae cabapenemase respectively; two enzymes which render nearly all beta-lactam antibiotics useless.

TOKU-E offers two forms of colistin: colistin sulfate (C083) and colistin sodium methanesulfonate (C073). Both forms of colistin are freely soluble in aqueous solution.  Colistin sodium methanesulfonate (CMS) is considered an inactive prodrug which means it is inactive until converted into colistin by cellular enzymes.  Colistin sulfate (colistin) however, is the end product of CMS and does not require molecular conversion for antimicrobial effects. To see all available colistin products, click here.

This product is considered a dangerous good. Quantities above 1 g may be subject to additional shipping fees. Please contact us for specific questions.

CAS Number

1264-72-8

Molecular Formula

C₅₂H₉₈N₁₆O₁₃ •2.5 H₂SO₄ (Colistin Sulfate A)

Molecular Weight

1155.43 (Colistin Sulfate A)

Mechanism of Action

Colistin has a bactericidal effect on Gram negative bacteria by interacting with and displacing essential ions in the lipopolysaccharide (LPS) outer cell wall leading to increased permeability and eventually lysis of the cell.

Storage Conditions

2-8°C

Tariff Code

2941.90.1050

Spectrum

Colistin sulfate is used primarily against Gram negative bacteria.

Specifications: