derivatives of furan in which a hydrogen atom is replaced by a nitro group. Nitrofurans have a broad spectrum of antimicrobial action, which is based on their capacity to inhibit respiration of the microbial cell. In surgery, nitrofurans are used for treatment of wounds and for prophylaxis of postoperative complications (Nitrofurazone); in obstetrics, gynecology, and urology they are used for treatment of infectious diseases (Furadonine and Furazolidone). They are also used for treatment of giardiasis and trichomoniasis (Furazolidone).