Can a tuberculosis drug effectively reach the lungs with extended-interval dosing? This study investigates the pharmacokinetics of rifapentine, a key drug in tuberculosis treatment, within the lungs following a single oral dose. The findings shed light on its distribution and effectiveness, potentially optimizing treatment strategies. The research involved thirty volunteers undergoing bronchoscopy and bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) at various intervals post-administration. Measurements of drug concentrations in plasma, BAL fluid, and alveolar cells revealed peak concentrations occurred within 5-7 hours. Intrapulmonary rifapentine concentrations, though lower than plasma levels, remained above the breakpoint for *M. tuberculosis* for 48 hours. These results support the rationale for extended-interval dosing of rifapentine, suggesting it maintains therapeutic levels in the lungs over prolonged periods. While controlled clinical trials are necessary to determine the optimal dosing regimen, this pharmacokinetic data provides a valuable foundation for improving TB treatment efficacy.
Published in Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy, this research is highly relevant to the journal's scope. The study provides valuable pharmacokinetic data on an important antimicrobial drug used in treating tuberculosis, a major focus area for the journal and its readership.