Ethambutol 200mg

Ethambutol 200mg Uses

Ethambutol 200mg is prescribed to:

• Treat active pulmonary and extrapulmonary tuberculosis as part of combination therapy.
• Prevent the emergence of drug-resistant tuberculosis strains.
• Support treatment regimens for multidrug-resistant TB (MDR-TB) under medical supervision.

How Does Ethambutol 200mg Work

Ethambutol works by interfering with the bacterial cell wall synthesis. It inhibits the production of arabinogalactan, an essential component of the mycobacterial cell wall. This action:

• Slows down bacterial growth.
• Enhances the effectiveness of other antituberculosis drugs in combination therapy.

How to Use Ethambutol 200mg

• Take Ethambutol 200mg exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider.
• Swallow the tablet whole with water, preferably on an empty stomach or as directed.
• Ethambutol is typically used alongside other antituberculosis medications; follow your doctor’s complete treatment plan.
• Do not skip doses, as inconsistent use may lead to drug resistance.

Important Notes

• Regular follow-up and monitoring are crucial to ensure treatment effectiveness and prevent side effects.
• Complete the full course of therapy, even if symptoms improve, to avoid relapse.

Side Effects

Common side effects may include:

• Nausea or upset stomach
• Loss of appetite
• Mild joint pain

Rare but serious side effects include:

• Vision problems, such as blurred vision or color blindness
• Severe allergic reactions, such as rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing
• Peripheral neuropathy, with symptoms like tingling or numbness in the hands or feet

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe or unusual side effects.

Drug Interactions

Ethambutol 200mg may interact with:

• Aluminum-containing antacids, which can reduce its absorption.
• Other medications that affect kidney function, increasing the risk of toxicity.

Inform your doctor about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are using to avoid potential interactions.

Food Interactions

• Ethambutol can be taken with or without food, but taking it with food may reduce stomach upset.
• Avoid alcohol consumption, as it may increase the risk of liver toxicity when used with other antituberculosis medications.

Ethambutol 200mg Contraindications

This medication is not suitable for:

• Individuals allergic to Ethambutol or any other components of the formulation.
• Patients with severe kidney impairment without medical supervision.
• Individuals with pre-existing optic neuritis or other vision problems.

Precautions and Warnings

• Inform your doctor if you have a history of kidney disease, gout, or vision disorders.
• Regular eye exams are recommended during treatment to monitor for potential vision changes.
• Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult their doctor before using this medication.

Storage

• Store Ethambutol 200mg tablets at room temperature, away from moisture, heat, and direct sunlight.
• Keep the tablets in their original packaging and out of reach of children and pets.
• Dispose of unused or expired tablets responsibly, following local disposal guidelines.

Safety Information

• Use this medication only as directed by your healthcare provider.
• Do not discontinue therapy without consulting your doctor, as this may lead to treatment failure.
• Seek immediate medical attention if you experience vision changes, severe allergic reactions, or unusual symptoms.