What it does
Protionamide is a medication used to treat tuberculosis (TB), particularly when other treatments are not effective.
Commonly used for: tuberculosis (TB)
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Source: Pharmacy and Medicines Regulatory Authority · fetched 2026-04-21 17:37:41 · updated 2026-09-29 04:33:05
About this medicine
Protionamide is a medication used to treat tuberculosis (TB), particularly when other treatments are not effective.
What it treats
- tuberculosis (TB)
How it works
Protionamide helps kill the bacteria that cause tuberculosis, allowing the body to recover from the infection.
Who it's for
This medication is for people diagnosed with tuberculosis who may need additional treatment options.
AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
Clinical monograph: protionamide
BNF-referencedProtionamide is an antitubercular agent used primarily in the treatment of tuberculosis, especially in cases resistant to first-line therapy. It belongs to the class of thioamide derivatives and functions by inhibiting the synthesis of mycolic acids, which are essential components of the mycobacterial cell wall. Protionamide is often used in combination with other antitubercular agents to enhance therapeutic efficacy and reduce the risk of resistance development.
Indications
- Tuberculosis (TB)
- Multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB)
Dosage
Children: For children, the dosage should be determined based on weight and clinical guidelines; refer to the BNF for Children for specific dosing recommendations.
Adults: The usual adult dosage is 500 mg to 1000 mg daily, administered in divided doses.
Mechanism of action
Protionamide exerts its effect by inhibiting the enzyme InhA, which is involved in the fatty acid synthesis pathway crucial for the production of mycolic acids in the mycobacterial cell wall. This disruption in mycolic acid synthesis compromises the integrity of the bacterial cell wall, leading to cell lysis and death.
Pharmacodynamics
The pharmacodynamics of protionamide involve its bactericidal activity against Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It shows a time-dependent killing effect, meaning that prolonged exposure to the drug enhances its efficacy. The drug also demonstrates synergistic effects when used in combination with other antitubercular agents, making it a valuable component in multidrug-resistant tuberculosis treatment regimens.
Pharmacokinetics
Protionamide is well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, with peak plasma concentrations typically occurring within 2 to 4 hours after administration. It is metabolized in the liver, primarily by N-acetylation, and has a variable half-life of approximately 2 to 8 hours. The drug is excreted mainly in the urine, both as unchanged drug and metabolites. Renal impairment may affect its clearance, necessitating dosage adjustments in such patients.
Adverse effects
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Anorexia
- Rash
- Hepatotoxicity
- Peripheral neuropathy
Interactions
- May enhance the effects of other antitubercular agents
- Potential interaction with isoniazid leading to increased risk of peripheral neuropathy
Precautions
- Monitor liver function tests during treatment due to potential hepatotoxicity
- Use with caution in patients with a history of liver disease
- Regular monitoring for signs of peripheral neuropathy
Pregnancy
Use only if the potential benefit justifies the risk to the fetus. Consult with a healthcare provider.
Breast-feeding
Caution is advised as protionamide is excreted in breast milk. Weigh the benefits against potential risks.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place away from light. Keep out of reach of children.
Formulations
- Tablets
AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.
Molecular reference: protionamide
PubChem CID 666418Molecular formula: C9H12N2S
Source: PubChem (NCBI) · pathways from PathBank, Reactome, WikiPathways & PharmGKB.