Anti-tubercular Agents
Synthetic anti-tubercular agents:
- Isoniazid*
- Ethionamide
- Ethambutol
- Pyrazinamide
- Para amino salicylic acid*
Detail Explanation
Anti-tubercular agents are pharmaceutical compounds used to combat tuberculosis (TB), an infectious disease caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis. These agents are categorized into two main groups: synthetic and natural. The focus here is on synthetic anti-tubercular agents, which play a critical role in the treatment regimen.
Isoniazid, a first-line medication, inhibits the synthesis of mycolic acids, essential components of the mycobacterial cell wall. Ethionamide, a derivative of isonicotinic acid, targets similar pathways, providing an alternative for drug-resistant strains. Ethambutol acts by disrupting the formation of the mycobacterial cell envelope, ensuring the bacteria's structural integrity is compromised.
Pyrazinamide, a prodrug, is activated in the acidic environment of the infected macrophages, directly targeting dormant mycobacteria. Lastly, Para amino salicylic acid (PAS) interferes with folic acid synthesis, curbing bacterial proliferation.
These agents are typically used in combination to prevent resistance and ensure efficacy. The importance of these synthetic drugs cannot be overstated in global TB control programs, especially in the fight against multidrug-resistant TB.
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