Other Names: P-aminosalicylic Acid, PAS, 4-Aminosalicylic Acid
CAS Number: 65-49-6
Molecular Formula: C7H7NO3
Molecular Weight: 153.14 g/mol
Pharmacological Action
Aminosalicylic Acid is an antimicrobial agent primarily used in the treatment of tuberculosis. It belongs to the class of drugs known as antitubercular agents and works by interfering with the synthesis of folic acid in Mycobacterium tuberculosis.
Mechanism of Action: - Inhibition of Folate Synthesis: Aminosalicylic Acid inhibits the enzyme dihydropteroate synthase, which is crucial for the synthesis of folic acid in mycobacteria. This enzymatic blockade leads to reduced folate production, impairing the replication of Mycobacterium tuberculosis. - Bacteriostatic Effect: The primary action of Aminosalicylic Acid is bacteriostatic, meaning it inhibits the growth and replication of bacteria rather than killing them directly. This helps in controlling the spread of the infection within the host.
