Which of the following anti TB drug is NOT bactericidal
## **Core Concept**
The question tests the understanding of the pharmacological properties of anti-tuberculosis (TB) drugs, specifically whether they are bactericidal (kill bacteria) or bacteriostatic (inhibit bacterial growth). This distinction is crucial in the treatment of TB.
## **Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Ethambutol works by inhibiting the synthesis of the cell wall, specifically by interfering with the incorporation of mycolic acid into the cell wall of Mycobacterium tuberculosis. This action is primarily bacteriostatic, meaning it inhibits the growth of the bacteria rather than killing them outright. In contrast, drugs like isoniazid, rifampicin, and pyrazinamide are known to be bactericidal.
## **Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
- **Option A:** Isoniazid is bactericidal. It works by inhibiting the synthesis of mycolic acid, leading to the death of the bacteria.
- **Option B:** Rifampicin is bactericidal. It inhibits RNA synthesis by binding to the beta-subunit of RNA polymerase, which leads to the death of the bacteria.
- **Option D:** Pyrazinamide is bactericidal. Its exact mechanism is not fully understood, but it is thought to work by disrupting membrane transport processes, leading to the accumulation of toxic compounds inside the bacteria, ultimately killing them.
## **Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
A key point to remember is that the combination of bactericidal and bacteriostatic drugs is often used in TB treatment to both kill the bacteria and prevent the growth of the remaining bacteria, thereby reducing the risk of drug resistance.
## **Correct Answer:** . Ethambutol