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. 1992 Jan;36(1):92–94. doi: 10.1128/aac.36.1.92

Fusidic acid is highly active against extracellular and intracellular Mycobacterium leprae.

S G Franzblau 1, A N Biswas 1, E B Harris 1
PMCID: PMC189233  PMID: 1590706

Abstract

The activity of fusidic acid against Mycobacterium leprae was studied in axenic medium and in bacilli residing within mouse peritoneal macrophages. Activity was assessed by subsequent quantitation of bacillary radiorespirometric activity. Significant inhibition in both systems was observed at 0.156 micrograms/ml, and an approximately 50% reduction in activity occurred after exposure to 1.25 to 2.5 micrograms/ml. The excellent human pharmacokinetics and in vitro activity of fusidic acid against the leprosy bacillus warrant a clinical trial of this drug for leprosy.

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Selected References

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