Elucidating the role of clofazimine for the treatment of tuberculosis

Int J Tuberc Lung Dis. 2016 Dec 1;20(12):52-57. doi: 10.5588/ijtld.16.0073.

Abstract

Clofazimine (CFZ), a riminophenazine and a key component of the treatment regimen for lepromatous leprosy, has been rehabilitated clinically for the treatment of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB). Observational studies and a randomized control trial suggest efficacy in the treatment of MDR-TB and the potential for treatment shortening. Animal and translational research have shown mixed results. In this article, we review key clinical, animal, and translational data to better understand the potential role of CFZ in the treatment of MDR-TB and in shortening anti-tuberculosis treatment.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Antitubercular Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Clofazimine / therapeutic use*
  • Disease Models, Animal
  • Dose-Response Relationship, Drug
  • Drug Resistance, Multiple, Bacterial
  • Humans
  • Mycobacterium tuberculosis / drug effects
  • Observational Studies as Topic
  • Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
  • Tuberculosis, Multidrug-Resistant / drug therapy*

Substances

  • Antitubercular Agents
  • Clofazimine