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Pyrazinamide (Z)

Global Alliance for TB Drug Development · Phase 3 active Small molecule

Pyrazinamide is converted to pyrazinoic acid inside Mycobacterium tuberculosis cells, where it disrupts bacterial energy metabolism and nucleic acid synthesis.

Pyrazinamide is converted to pyrazinoic acid inside Mycobacterium tuberculosis cells, where it disrupts bacterial energy metabolism and nucleic acid synthesis. Used for Tuberculosis (TB), including drug-susceptible and multidrug-resistant TB as part of combination therapy.

At a glance

Generic namePyrazinamide (Z)
SponsorGlobal Alliance for TB Drug Development
Drug classNicotinamide analog; antituberculous agent
TargetPantothenate synthetase (PanC); pyrazinamidase activation
ModalitySmall molecule
Therapeutic areaInfectious Disease
PhasePhase 3

Mechanism of action

Pyrazinamide is a prodrug that requires activation by the bacterial enzyme pyrazinamidase to form pyrazinoic acid. Once activated, pyrazinoic acid accumulates in the mycobacterial cell and inhibits the enzyme pantothenate synthetase, disrupting the synthesis of coenzyme A and ultimately impairing bacterial energy production and nucleic acid synthesis. This mechanism is particularly effective against intracellular and slowly replicating tubercle bacilli.

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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