ethambutol

n.
An antibacterial drug, C₁₀H₂₄N₂O₂, used in combination with other drugs in the treatment of pulmonary tuberculosis.

[ETH(YLENE) + AM(INE) + BUT(AN)OL.]

Brand names: Myambutol®

Chemical formula:

Español:
• Clorhidrato de etambutol, Tableta oral

Ethambutol Hydrochloride Oral tablet

What is this medicine?

ETHAMBUTOL (e THAM byoo tole) is used to treat tuberculosis (TB). This medicine is never used alone, but always with another medicine.
 
This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
•eye problems or disease
•kidney disease
•liver disease
•an unusual or allergic reaction to ethambutol, other medicines, foods, dyes or preservatives
•pregnant or trying to get pregnant
•breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

Take this medicine by mouth with a glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Take this medicine with or without food. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. For your therapy to work as well as possible, take each dose exactly as prescribed. Do not skip doses or stop your medicine even if you feel better. Skipping doses may make the TB resistant to this medicine and other medicines. Do not stop taking except on your doctor's advice.

Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. While this drug may be prescribed for children as young as 13 years of age for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can if it is more than an hour to your next dose. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medicine?

•antacids with aluminum
•supplements or vitamins with aluminum

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Visit your doctor for regular check ups. Tell your doctor or healthcare professional if your symptoms do not start to get better or if they get worse.

Tell your doctor or health care professional right away if you have any change in your eyesight.

Do not take any medicines that contain aluminum for 4 hours before or after you take this medicine.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:
•allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
•breathing problems
•changes in vision
•confusion, disoriented
•fever or chills, sore throat
•hallucinations
•joint aches, pain, or swelling
•numb or tingling pain in the hands or feet
•trouble passing urine or change in the amount of urine
•unusually weak or tired

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
•dizziness
•headache
•loss of appetite
•nausea, vomiting
•stomach pain

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 20 and 25 degrees C (68 and 77 degrees F). Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

Last updated: 7/1/2002

Important Disclaimer: The drug information provided here is for educational purposes only. It is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the diagnosis, treatment and advice of a medical professional. This drug information does not cover all possible uses, precautions, side effects and interactions. It should not be construed to indicate that this or any drug is safe for you. Consult your medical professional for guidance before using any prescription or over the counter drugs.

(ĕ-thăm'byə-tôl', -tōl')
n.

An antibacterial drug used in combination with other drugs in the treatment of pulmonary tuberculosis.

A tuberculostatic agent.