Pyrazinamide

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Description

Pyrazinamide is a powerful antibiotic primarily used to treat tuberculosis (TB). It is part of the standard four-drug regimen for TB treatment, alongside isoniazid, rifampicin, and ethambutol. Pyrazinamide is unique among these drugs for its ability to penetrate and kill dormant Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the bacteria responsible for TB. It works by disrupting the production of essential proteins in the bacteria, ultimately leading to their death. However, pyrazinamide has a significant side effect profile, including hepatotoxicity and drug-induced lupus. Therefore, its use must be carefully monitored by a healthcare professional.

Associated Diseases

• Tuberculosis (TB)
• Multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB)
• Extensively drug-resistant tuberculosis (XDR-TB)

Did you know?

Pyrazinamide is a prodrug, meaning it is inactive when ingested and needs to be converted into its active form within the body.