Treatment alternatives for Mycobacterium kansasii

Mycobacterium kansasii was administered intravenously to congenitally athymic (nude) mice. Beginning 1 week later, rifapentine, azithromycin, ethambutol or combined therapy was initiated orally. All three drugs were highly active individually. Although there was no evidence of antagonism, combined therapy was not more effective than either component used alone.