Aminosalicylate sodium

Aminosalicylate sodium is a type of medication used primarily in the treatment of tuberculosis. It belongs to the class of drugs known as antimycobacterial agents, which work by inhibiting the growth of the bacteria that cause tuberculosis.

History

Aminosalicylate sodium was first introduced in the 1940s as a treatment for tuberculosis. It was one of the first effective treatments for the disease, and its introduction marked a significant turning point in the fight against tuberculosis.

Uses

Aminosalicylate sodium is used in combination with other drugs to treat tuberculosis. It is particularly effective against drug-resistant strains of the disease. In addition to its use in treating tuberculosis, aminosalicylate sodium is sometimes used to treat ulcerative colitis, a type of inflammatory bowel disease.

Side Effects

Like all medications, aminosalicylate sodium can cause side effects. These can include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. In rare cases, it can cause more serious side effects such as liver damage or hypersensitivity reactions.

Mechanism of Action

Aminosalicylate sodium works by inhibiting the synthesis of folic acid in the bacteria that cause tuberculosis. Folic acid is essential for the bacteria's growth and reproduction, so by inhibiting its synthesis, aminosalicylate sodium effectively stops the bacteria from multiplying.

Dosage

The dosage of aminosalicylate sodium will depend on the individual patient's condition and response to treatment. It is usually taken orally, in tablet form, although it can also be administered intravenously in some cases.

See Also

• Tuberculosis
• Antimycobacterial agents
• Ulcerative colitis