What condition does Ethambutol HCL treat?
Ethambutol HCL is used for the treatment of tuberculosis (TB). TB is a disease caused by bacteria called mycobacterium tuberculosis. It usually attacks the lungs and can also damage other parts of the body. This medication is usually used along with other tuberculosis medications.
This drug may also be used with other medications to help treat Mycobacterium avium complex-MAC. It may also be used with other medications to prevent the MAC infection from occurring again in people with advanced HIV disease.
Ethambutol HCL is an oral chemotherapeutic agent. It is specifically effective against actively growing microorganisms of the genus mycobacterium. This drug comes as a tablet for oral use. This was approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
How does Ethambutol HCL work?
Ethambutol HCL prevents arabinosyl transferase which is involved in cell wall biosynthesis. By preventing this enzyme, the bacterial cell wall complex creation is subdued. This leads to an increase in cell wall permeability.
This medicine is an antibiotic that works by preventing the development of bacteria. This only treats bacterial infections. It will not work for viral infections such as flu or a common cold. Unnecessary use or misuse of any antibiotic can lead to its decreased effectiveness.
What is the recommended dosage for Ethambutol HCL?
This medication is to be taken by mouth. You may take it with or without food. It is usually taken once a day or as directed by your doctor. The recommended dosage is based on your medical condition and response.
Antibiotics work best when the quantity of drugs in your body is kept at a constant level. Therefore, take it at evenly spaced intervals. To help you remember, take it at the same time each day.
Even if symptoms disappear, continue to take this medication and other TB medications until the full prescribed amount is finished. Stopping the treatment ahead of time or skipping dosages may let the bacteria continue to develop, which may result in a return of the infection and cause the infection to be more difficult to treat.
What are the side effects of Ethambutol HCL?
- Loss of appetite
- Headache
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Dizziness
- Joint pain
- Abdominal pain
- Worsening gout
Call your doctor if these happen:
- Vision changes
- Numbness or tingling of arms or legs
- Symptoms of liver disease
- Toe pain
What are the precautions in taking Ethambutol HCL?
- Before taking this medication, consult your doctor first if you are a breastfeeding woman. Do not breastfeed if you have HIV disease because breast milk can transmit HIV.
- Do not take this medication if you are allergic to it. Let your doctor know if you have any allergies.
- Alcohol may increase the risk of liver disease. Avoid alcoholic beverages while having treatment with this medication.
- This medicine may cause live bacterial vaccines to not work as well. Do not have any vaccinations or immunizations while using this medication unless your doctor tells you to do so.
- It is important to tell your doctor about the medications you may be taking including vitamins or herbal supplements.
