Ethambutol
Brand name Myambutol
Used in the following combined preparations None
GENERAL INFORMATION
Ethambutol is used in the treatment of tuberculosis. Given in conjunction with other antituberculous drugs, it helps to boost their effects.
If resistance to more commonly used drugs is suspected, ethambutol may be used early in treatment. This may apply if the disease might have been caught by contact with a recent immigrant from Africa or Asia, where resistance to other drugs has been increasing.
Although the drug has few common adverse effects, it may occasionally cause optic neuritis, a type of eye damage leading to blurring and fading of vision. As a result, ethambutol is not usually prescribed for children under six years of age or for other patients who are unable to communicate their symptoms adequately. Patients taking this drug are normally advised to have periodic eye checks.
Information for Users
Your drug prescription is tailored for you. Do not alter dosage without checking with your doctor.
How taken
Tablets.
Frequency and timing of doses
Once daily.
Adult dosage range
According to body weight.
Onset of effect
It may take several days for symptoms to improve.
Duration of action
Up to 24 hours.
Diet advice
None.
Storage
Keep in a closed container in a cool, dry, place out of the reach of children.
Missed dose
Take as soon as you remember. If your next dose is due within 6 hours, take a single dose now and skip the next.
Stopping the drug
Take the full course. Even if you feel better the original infection may still be present and may recur if treatment is stopped too soon.
Exceeding the dose
An occasional unintentional extra dose is unlikely to cause problems. Large overdoses may cause headache and abdominal pain. Notify your doctor.
Possible Adverse Effects
Side effects are uncommon with this drug, but are more likely after prolonged treatment at high doses. Blurred vision or eye pain require prompt medical attention.
Quick Reference
Drug group Antituberculous drug.
Overdose danger rating Medium
Dependence rating Low
Prescription needed Yes
Available as generic No
Interactions
None.
Special Precautions
Be sure to tell your doctor if:
You have a long-term kidney problem.
You have cataracts or other eye problems.
You have gout.
You have had a previous allergic reaction to this drug.
You are taking other medications.
Pregnancy
Safety in pregnancy not established. Discuss with your doctor.
Breast-feeding
The drug passes into the breast milk, but at normal doses adverse effects on the baby are unlikely. Discuss with your doctor.
Infants and children
Not prescribed under 6 years.
Over 60
Increased likelihood of adverse effects. Reduced dose may be necessary.
Driving and hazardous work
Avoid such activities until you have learned how ethambutol affects you because the drug may cause dizziness.
Alcohol
No known problems.
Prolonged Use
Prolonged use may increase the risk of eye damage.
Monitoring Periodic eye tests are necessary.
