Thayer and Martin formulated a selective medium to isolate N. gonorrhoeae and N. meningitidis containing antibiotics capable of suppressing the commensal microbial flora present in the anal canal, vagina, pharynx, and other sites ⁶. The antibiotics used initially, ristocetin and polymyxin B, were replaced with vancomycin, colistimethate, and nystatin⁷. The medium contains an increased concentration of dextrose which allows better growth of gonococci.

• Ready-to-use – Convenience of prepared medium.
• Selective media –
  • Anisomycin suppresses Candida albicans.
  • Colistin inhibits most gram-negative microorganisms, including Pseudomonas spp.
  • Vancomycin inhibits gram-positive cocci.
  • Trimethoprim lactate suppresses swarming of Proteus spp.

Thayer and Martin Agar (Improved) contains hemoglobin, which provides the X factor (hemin), and GCHI Enrichment that provides the V factor, vitamins, amino acids, coenzymes, and dextrose. The tablet provided in the JEMBEC™ and Pill Pocket systems comes in contact with the water vapor present in the medium and liberates carbon dioxide into the enclosed pack.

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Remel™ and Oxoid™ products are now part of the Thermo Scientific brand.