Tuberculostatic

Definition of Tuberculostatic from the PharmacyDictionary.in

Tuberculostatic

Refers to a substance that stops the tuberculosis bacteria from growing without necessarily killing them.

  • Tuberculo – refers to the Mycobacterium tuberculosis bacteria, which causes tuberculosis (TB).
  • Static – comes from the Greek word “statis” meaning standing or fixed. In this context, it signifies stopping growth or activity.

So, a tuberculostatic agent is a substance that inhibits the growth of Mycobacterium tuberculosis. This doesn’t necessarily mean it kills the bacteria, but rather prevents them from multiplying.

The term “Tuberculostatic” refers to a type of drug or substance that inhibits the growth and reproduction of Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the bacteria that causes tuberculosis (TB), without necessarily killing them. This is different from “Tuberculocidal” drugs, which are designed to kill these bacteria.

Tuberculostatic drugs work by interfering with the bacteria’s ability to replicate and spread, effectively containing the infection and preventing it from worsening. This is crucial in the treatment of TB, as it allows the body’s immune system to more effectively combat the existing bacteria.

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