Definition

1. Noun:
   • An antibiotic that is especially active against the tubercle bacillus: Cycloserine is a type of antibiotic medication used primarily to treat tuberculosis, particularly when the bacteria are resistant to other drugs.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:
  • The doctor prescribed cycloserine as part of the multi-drug regimen for drug-resistant tuberculosis.
  • Due to its potential side effects, cycloserine is typically used when first-line treatments fail.

Advanced Usage

• Medical Context: Cycloserine is classified as a second-line antituberculosis agent. Its use requires careful monitoring by a healthcare professional.
  • The patient's treatment plan included cycloserine, which required regular blood tests to monitor for toxicity.

Variants and Related Words

• Antibiotic (n): A broader class of substances, like cycloserine, that inhibit the growth of or destroy microorganisms.
• Antitubercular agent (n): A drug used to treat tuberculosis; cycloserine is one specific type.

Synonyms

• Antibiotic: A general term for a substance that fights bacterial infections.
• Antimicrobial: An agent that kills microorganisms or stops their growth.

Notes on Usage

• Cycloserine is a specific, technical term used almost exclusively in medical and pharmaceutical contexts. It is not used in everyday conversation.
• It is crucial to use this medication exactly as prescribed due to risks of serious side effects and antibiotic resistance.

Noun

1. an antibiotic that is especially active against the tubercle bacillus