Pyrazinamide: Chemical Structure, Mechanism of Action, Uses & Side effects

Chemical formula:

• C5H5N3O

Structure of Pyrazinamide

Mechanism of action:

• Pyrazinamide is a prodrug that is converted to its active form, pyrazinoic acid, by the mycobacterial enzyme pyrazinamidase.

• Pyrazinoic acid disrupts mycobacterial membrane potential and interferes with membrane transport, inhibiting the growth of Mycobacterium tuberculosis.

Uses:

• Pyrazinamide is used in combination with other antitubercular drugs for the treatment of tuberculosis (TB), particularly during the intensive phase of treatment.

Side effects:

• Side effects can include hepatotoxicity, hyperuricemia (leading to gout), gastrointestinal disturbances, and hypersensitivity reactions.