Aminosalicylic Acid
Aminosalicylic acid is a second-line anti-tuberculosis medication used to treat Mycobacterium tuberculosis infections, typically when first-line drugs are ineffective or contraindicated. It is almost exclusively used in combination with other anti-tuberculosis agents as part of a multidrug regimen. This medication has largely been replaced by more effective and better-tolerated alternatives but remains an option for drug-resistant tuberculosis cases.
Aminosalicylic acid is a second-line anti-tuberculosis drug used primarily for drug-resistant TB in combination with other medications.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- J04AA01
- RxNorm
- 7833
- Generic
- Aminosalicylic Acid
- Class
- atc-j04
- Brands
- Paser D/R
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Treatment of pulmonary and extrapulmonary tuberculosis caused by susceptible strains of Mycobacterium tuberculosis, particularly in cases of multidrug-resistant TB when standard first-line therapies (such as isoniazid, rifampin) have failed or cannot be tolerated.
Aminosalicylic acid is a folic acid antagonist that inhibits the enzyme dihydropteroate synthetase in Mycobacterium tuberculosis, blocking the synthesis of dihydrofolic acid and subsequently impairing DNA synthesis. This bacteriostatic action inhibits bacterial growth and replication.
May cause significant gastrointestinal side effects including nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Can cause crystalluria and kidney irritation—adequate hydration is essential. Requires monitoring of liver and kidney function. Drug interactions include reduced absorption of digoxin and vitamin B12. Always used as part of combination therapy to prevent resistance development.
Official drug label
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This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 29, 2026. · Read our editorial policy