Tuberculosis (TB) - Medications

Question 1

Mechanism of Action of Rifampicin.

Answer 1

Inhibits bacterial DNA-dependent RNA Polymerase which prevents the transcription of DNA into mRNA.

Question 2

Adverse Effects of Rifampicin.

Answer 2

1. Potent Liver Enzyme Inducer.
2. Hepatitis.
3. Orange Secretions (I am Pissing).
4. Flu-Like Symptoms.

Question 3

Mechanism of Action of Isoniazid.

Answer 3

Inhibits mycelia acid synthesis.

Question 4

Adverse Effects of Isoniazid.

Answer 4

1. Peripheral Neuropathy (Vitamin B6) (I’m so numb).
2. Hepatitis.
3. Agranulocytosis.
4. Liver Enzyme Inhibitor.

Question 5

Mechanism of Action of Pyrazinamide.

Answer 5

Converted by Pyrazinamidase into Pyrazinoic Acid which inhibits FAS (Fatty Acid Synthase) I.

Question 6

Adverse Effects of Pyrazinamide.

Answer 6

1. Hyperuricaemia - Gout.
2. Arthralgia and Myalgia.
3. Hepatitis.

Question 7

Mechanism of Action of Ethambutol.

Answer 7

Inhibits the enzyme Arabinosyl Transferase (which polymerases Arabinose into Arabinan).

Question 8

Adverse Effects of Ethambutol.

Answer 8

1. Optic Neuritis (Check Visual Acuity before and during treatment).
2. Colour Blindness and Reduced Visual Acuity (Eyethambutol).

Question 9

Contraindication of Ethambutol.

Answer 9

Chronic Kidney Disease.