Ethambutol 600mg

Ethambutol 600mg Uses

Ethambutol 600mg is prescribed to:

• Treat active tuberculosis, including pulmonary and extrapulmonary forms, as part of combination therapy.
• Prevent the emergence of drug-resistant TB when used with other antituberculosis drugs.
• Manage cases of multidrug-resistant TB (MDR-TB) under medical supervision.

How Does Ethambutol 600mg Work

Ethambutol works by inhibiting the synthesis of arabinogalactan, an essential component of the mycobacterial cell wall. This action:

• Impairs bacterial cell wall integrity.
• Slows bacterial growth and enhances the efficacy of other TB drugs used in combination.

How to Use Ethambutol 600mg

• Take Ethambutol 600mg exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider.
• Swallow the tablet whole with water, preferably on an empty stomach or as directed.
• Ethambutol is always used alongside other antituberculosis medications; follow the complete treatment regimen as prescribed.
• Adhere to the dosing schedule to ensure treatment effectiveness and prevent resistance.

Important Notes

• Regular monitoring and follow-up are essential to assess treatment progress and detect potential side effects.
• Complete the full course of therapy, even if symptoms improve, to prevent 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, indicated by tingling or numbness in the extremities

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

Drug Interactions

Ethambutol 600mg may interact with:

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

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

Food Interactions

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

Ethambutol 600mg Contraindications

This medication is not suitable for:

• Individuals allergic to Ethambutol or its components.
• Patients with severe kidney impairment without medical supervision.
• Individuals with pre-existing optic neuritis or significant vision disorders.

Precautions and Warnings

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

Storage

• Store Ethambutol 600mg tablets at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, 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 medical advice, as this may lead to treatment failure and drug resistance.
• Seek immediate medical attention if you experience vision changes, severe allergic reactions, or other unusual symptoms.