Comparative study of SQ 18 506 with other nitroheterocyclic compounds on experimental Chagas' disease.

The activity of the 5-nitrovinylfuran, SQ 18 506, is compared in vivo and in vitro with lampit (a 5-nitrofuran), Ro 7-1051 (a 2-nitroimidazole) and metronidazole (a 5-nitroimidazole). The order of activities on a weight basis was: SQ 18 506 greater than lampit greater than Ro 7-1051 greater than metronidazole. Concern about possible mutagenicity and carcinogenicity, however, has precluded the use of SQ 18 506 in clinical trials.