Prothionamide
Prothionamide is a second-line antimycobacterial agent primarily used in the treatment of drug-resistant tuberculosis when first-line medications are ineffective or contraindicated. It belongs to the thioamide class of antibiotics and is typically used in combination with other anti-TB drugs as part of a multi-drug regimen.
Prothionamide is an antimycobacterial medication used to treat drug-resistant tuberculosis infections.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- J04AD01
- RxNorm
- 8871
- Generic
- Prothionamide
- Class
- atc-j04
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- tablet
- 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 drug-resistant tuberculosis (TB), particularly when caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis strains resistant to first-line medications like isoniazid and rifampicin. It may also be considered in cases where first-line agents cannot be tolerated.
Prothionamide is a thioamide derivative that inhibits mycolic acid synthesis, a critical component of the mycobacterial cell wall. By disrupting cell wall formation, it prevents bacterial growth and replication. It is structurally and mechanistically similar to ethionamide.
Prothionamide should only be used under close medical supervision as part of a supervised treatment program. Common side effects may include gastrointestinal disturbances, hepatotoxicity, and neurological effects. It is often reserved for cases where standard TB therapies have failed due to resistance.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
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 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy