Isoniazid and wound healing

In non-tuberculous patients with lesions exhibiting a delayed healing process oral isoniazid in doses of 3 mg./kg. was found to be rapidly effective in stimulating the wounded area to produce healthy granulation tissue. The prompt healing of these defects was accomplished by the formation of scar tissue which resisted stress in a superior manner. A topical ointment of 2% isoniazid in eucerin had a similar beneficial effect in patients with indolent skin ulcers who had failed to respond to routine treatment. Epithelialization rapidly ensued once the granulating base was established. A further series of patients with delayed wound healing and failure to respond to antibiotics or isoniazid alone showed satisfactory response when both measures were used simultaneously. It is postulated that isoniazid provides a stimulus to the growth of normal granulation tissue, may promote greater tensile strength in scars, and may be of benefit in antibiotic-resistant infections because of its ability to boost the host's normal repair mechanisms.