Ethionamide 250mg

Ethionamide 250mg Uses

Ethionamide is primarily used for:

• Treating multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB).
• Managing TB infections when first-line medications are not effective or cannot be used.
• Treating pulmonary (lung-related) and extrapulmonary TB when part of a prescribed combination therapy.

How Does Ethionamide 250mg Work

Ethionamide inhibits the synthesis of mycolic acids, essential components of the bacterial cell wall. By disrupting this process, the medication prevents the growth and multiplication of Mycobacterium tuberculosis, enabling the immune system to clear the infection more effectively.

How to Use Ethionamide 250mg

• Take Ethionamide 250mg exactly as prescribed by your doctor, typically once or twice daily.
• It is best taken with food to reduce stomach upset.
• Swallow the tablet whole with water; do not crush or chew it.
• Complete the full course of treatment, even if symptoms improve, to prevent drug resistance.

Side Effects

Common side effects may include:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Stomach pain
• Metallic taste in the mouth

Serious side effects may include:

• Liver dysfunction, indicated by yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, or severe fatigue.
• Peripheral neuropathy, with symptoms like tingling or numbness in the hands and feet.
• Severe allergic reactions, such as rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing.

Drug Interactions

Ethionamide 250mg may interact with:

• Other anti-tuberculosis drugs, requiring careful monitoring to prevent additive side effects.
• Alcohol, which can increase the risk of liver toxicity.
• Medications that affect the central nervous system, such as sedatives or antidepressants, as it may increase drowsiness.

Food Interactions

• Ethionamide is best taken with food to minimize gastrointestinal discomfort.
• Avoid alcohol during treatment to reduce the risk of liver damage.

Ethionamide 250mg Contraindications

This medication is not suitable for:

• Patients with known hypersensitivity to Ethionamide or its components.
• Individuals with severe liver disease.
• Those with a history of severe gastrointestinal disorders or psychiatric conditions, as Ethionamide can exacerbate these issues.

Precautions and Warnings

• Regular liver function tests are essential during treatment to monitor for potential toxicity.
• Supplementing with vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) may be recommended to prevent or manage peripheral neuropathy.
• Pregnant women should use Ethionamide only if the benefits outweigh the risks, as its safety during pregnancy is not well-established.
• Breastfeeding mothers should consult their doctor before use.

Storage

• Store Ethionamide 250mg at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.
• Keep the medication in its original packaging to protect it from air and light.
• Ensure it is out of reach of children and pets.

Safety Information

• Use Ethionamide only as part of a combination therapy under the supervision of a healthcare provider.
• Do not skip doses or stop treatment prematurely, as this can lead to treatment failure or drug-resistant TB.
• Report any unusual symptoms, such as persistent nausea, tingling in the extremities, or jaundice, to your doctor immediately.