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Isoniazid (Rifinah)

National Taiwan University Hospital · FDA-approved active Small molecule

Isoniazid inhibits mycobacterial cell wall synthesis by blocking mycolic acid production, which is essential for Mycobacterium tuberculosis survival.

Isoniazid inhibits mycobacterial cell wall synthesis by blocking mycolic acid production, which is essential for Mycobacterium tuberculosis survival. Used for Tuberculosis (TB), including drug-susceptible pulmonary and extrapulmonary TB, Latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) prophylaxis.

At a glance

Generic nameIsoniazid (Rifinah)
Also known asIsoniazid, Rifinah
SponsorNational Taiwan University Hospital
Drug classAntituberculous agent
TargetEnoyl-ACP reductase (InhA)
ModalitySmall molecule
Therapeutic areaInfectious Disease
PhaseFDA-approved

Mechanism of action

Isoniazid is a prodrug that requires activation by the mycobacterial enzyme catalase-peroxidase (KatG) to form an isonicotinoyl radical. This activated form binds to mycobacterial enoyl-ACP reductase (InhA), inhibiting the synthesis of mycolic acids that are critical structural components of the mycobacterial cell wall. This disruption of cell wall integrity leads to bacterial death and is bactericidal against actively dividing M. tuberculosis.

Approved indications

Common side effects

Key clinical trials

Primary sources

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SourceUsed for
ClinicalTrials.govTrial enrolment, design, endpoints, results

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