Ethambutol + Isoniazid

Dosage forms available

• Ethambutol + Isoniazid is available for oral administration as tablets.

Age and dose restrictions

• Ethambutol + Isoniazid is suitable for adults and children who are aged 1 month and older.

Contraindications

• This medicine is contraindicated in patients with a known allergy to ethambutol or isoniazid.

• Patients with severe liver damage or acute liver disease should not take Ethambutol + Isoniazid.

Other medications to avoid

• Ethambutol + Isoniazid may interact with antacids containing aluminium (such as aluminium hydroxide or magnesium trisilicate), anticoagulants (such as warfarin), antiepileptic medicines (like phenytoin and carbamazepine), and bronchodilators (such as theophylline).

• Before starting any over-the-counter medicines, it is crucial to consult your doctor, as using them with Ethambutol + Isoniazid needs careful monitoring.

Overdose and missed dose

• Overdosing on Ethambutol + Isoniazid could lead to serious side effects such as vision problems, severe liver damage, skin rashes, hives, or itching. If you suspect an overdose, seek immediate medical attention.

• If you miss a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as you remember. However, avoid taking the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Management of side effects

Most side effects are temporary and generally harmless and resolve when discontinuing this medicine. However, if you experience any severe side effects or worsening of any of the symptoms, please consult your doctor.

• For nausea or stomach upset, try taking the medicine after meals.

• Stay well hydrated to manage side effects like dizziness and fatigue.

• Rest and sleep well to manage headaches.

Use in driving and operating machinery

• Ethambutol + Isoniazid may cause dizziness or fatigue. If you experience these side effects, avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you feel better.

Use in pregnancy and lactation

• The use of this medicine during pregnancy or breastfeeding is not recommended without doctor's advice. It is best to consult your doctor before taking this medication if you are pregnant or nursing.

Caution in other conditions

• Patients with kidney problems, liver disease, or those who consume alcohol regularly should exercise caution when taking Ethambutol + Isoniazid.

• Patients with vision issues should also be careful as this medicine can cause vision problems.

Special dietary and lifestyle recommendations

• Maintain a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and whole grains to support overall health while managing tuberculosis.

• Regular physical activity such as walking can help improve lung capacity and overall health.

• Ensure adequate rest and sleep to aid recovery.

• Avoid alcohol as it can increase the risk of liver damage when taking Ethambutol + Isoniazid.

• Avoid smoking as it can worsen tuberculosis and lung health.