What is the primary purpose of INH therapy in tuberculosis management?

The primary purpose of isoniazid (INH) therapy in tuberculosis management is to kill Mycobacterium tuberculosis and prevent the development of active TB disease. INH is a first-line antibiotic specifically targeted at the bacteria that cause tuberculosis. Its mechanism of action involves inhibiting the synthesis of mycolic acids, which are essential components of the mycobacterial cell wall. By disrupting this process, INH effectively reduces the bacterial load, making it a crucial part of both the treatment for active TB and the prevention of latent TB infection from progressing to active disease.

This focus on eliminating the bacteria distinguishes INH therapy's role in TB management from other potential treatments that may emphasize different aspects of health, such as enhancing immune response, reducing inflammation, or improving lung function. While those factors may also be relevant in a broader context of respiratory diseases, the specific goal of INH therapy is centered on bacterial eradication as a means to control and manage tuberculosis effectively.