Final answer:
Isoniazid and Rifampin are both first-line agents for tuberculosis treatment, with Isoniazid being particularly notable for its long-standing use and specific action against mycobacterial cell wall synthesis.
Step-by-step explanation:
The first-line therapy for tuberculosis usually consists of a combination of several antibiotics to prevent the development of drug resistance. Among the options given, Isoniazid and Rifampin are both used as first-line agents. However, Isoniazid is notable for its specific toxicity against mycobacteria and its long-standing use in combination with other drugs for treating tuberculosis. It acts by inhibiting the synthesis of mycolic acid, an essential component of the mycobacterial cell wall, thereby exerting its antibacterial effect. Multidrug-resistant (MDR-TB) and extensively drug-resistant (XDR-TB) strains highlight the importance of using proper treatment protocols which include drugs like Isoniazid, Rifampin, Ethambutol, and Pyrazinamide.