Chemical Structure / Formula of Pyrazinamide
Formula: C5H5N3O
Structure: A nicotinamide analog.
Mechanism of Action
Prodrug converted into pyrazinoic acid (POA) by pyrazinamidase (pncA enzyme).
POA disrupts membrane potential and fatty acid synthesis, leading to bacterial death.
Uses
First-line TB treatment, especially in short-course regimens.
Side Effects
Hepatotoxicity, hyperuricemia (gout), GI upset.
