PROTOMID
PROTHIONAMIDE TABLETS BP 250 MG
What it does
Prothionamide is a medication used to treat tuberculosis (TB), especially when other treatments aren't effective.
Commonly used for: tuberculosis (TB), pulmonary tuberculosis
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Source: Pharmacy and Poisons Board · fetched 2026-01-28 21:56:57 · updated 2026-03-23 04:42:04
About this medicine
Prothionamide is a medication used to treat tuberculosis (TB), especially when other treatments aren't effective.
What it treats
- tuberculosis (TB)
- pulmonary tuberculosis
How it works
It works by stopping the growth of bacteria that cause TB, helping the body to fight off the infection.
Who it's for
This medicine is for adults and children who have been diagnosed with tuberculosis.
AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
Clinical monograph: prothionamide
BNF-referencedProthionamide is an antitubercular agent used primarily in the treatment of tuberculosis (TB), particularly multidrug-resistant strains. It is a thioamide antibiotic that works by inhibiting the synthesis of mycolic acids, which are vital components of the cell wall of Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Prothionamide is often utilized in combination with other antitubercular medications to enhance efficacy and reduce the risk of resistance development.
Indications
- Tuberculosis (TB)
- Multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB)
Dosage
Children: Refer to BNF for Children for specific dosing recommendations based on the child's weight and age.
Adults: Refer to BNF for specific dosing recommendations based on the clinical scenario and other concurrent treatments.
Mechanism of action
Prothionamide inhibits the enzyme 2-trans-enoyl-ACP reductase, which is involved in the biosynthesis of mycolic acids in the cell wall of Mycobacterium tuberculosis. This inhibition disrupts the integrity of the bacterial cell wall, ultimately leading to cell death. It is related to the pathway of fatty acid biosynthesis, specifically targeting the synthesis of complex lipids critical for the survival of the pathogen.
Pharmacodynamics
Prothionamide exhibits bactericidal activity against Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The drug's effectiveness is influenced by the concentration of the drug at the site of infection, the susceptibility of the strains involved, and the presence of other antitubercular agents. Its action is dose-dependent, and it is generally more effective in the early stages of treatment.
Pharmacokinetics
Prothionamide is well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract and reaches peak plasma concentrations within 1 to 2 hours post-administration. It is extensively metabolized in the liver, primarily through oxidation and N-acetylation pathways. The drug has a half-life of approximately 2 to 6 hours. It is excreted in urine, with a significant proportion as metabolites. The pharmacokinetics can be influenced by factors such as liver function and concomitant medications.
Contra-indications
- Hypersensitivity to prothionamide or any of its components
- severe liver disease
Adverse effects
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Anorexia
- Rash
- Hepatotoxicity
- Peripheral neuropathy
- Hypersensitivity reactions
Interactions
- May enhance the effects of other hepatotoxic drugs
- May interact with antituberculosis agents
Precautions
- Use with caution in patients with liver disease
- Monitor liver function tests regularly
- Caution in patients with a history of peripheral neuropathy
Pregnancy
Prothionamide should only be used during pregnancy if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.
Breast-feeding
Caution is advised when administering prothionamide to breastfeeding women, as it is not known if it is excreted in human milk.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight.
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: prothionamide
PubChem CID 666418Molecular formula: C9H12N2S
Source: PubChem (NCBI) · pathways from PathBank, Reactome, WikiPathways & PharmGKB.