Description
Indications
Pyrazinamide is employed in combination with other medications for the treatment of tuberculosis (TB). Serving as an antibiotic, it operates by inhibiting bacterial growth. This antibiotic specifically targets bacterial infections and is ineffective against viral infections such as the common cold or flu.
Uses and Dosage
Administer this medication orally, either with or without food, in accordance with the directives provided by your doctor. Typically, the frequency of intake is once daily or twice weekly.
The appropriate dosage is contingent on factors such as your age, weight, medical condition, and the manner in which your body responds to treatment.
To achieve optimal efficacy, adhere to a consistent regimen of this antibiotic. If you’re taking the medication daily, ensure you consume it at the same time every day. For a weekly schedule, maintain consistency by taking it on the designated days of the week and at the exact same time each day.
Persistence in taking this medication, along with other prescribed TB medications, until the complete prescribed quantity is consumed, is essential, even if symptoms appear to abate. Premature cessation or irregular dosing may enable bacterial proliferation, potentially leading to a resurgence of the infection and rendering it more resistant and challenging to treat.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- upset stomach
- fatigue
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- skin rash
- fever
- vomiting
- loss of appetite
- yellowing of the skin or eyes
- darkened urine
- pain and swelling in the joints
- unusual bleeding or bruising
- difficult urination
Caution
Prior to commencing pyrazinamide treatment, inform your medical practitioner or pharmacist if you have any allergies, including allergies to pyrazinamide itself. It’s worth noting that this product might encompass inert constituents capable of inciting allergic responses or related issues.
Before initiating the usage of this medication, disclose your medical history to your healthcare provider or pharmacist. This includes pertinent information about any history of liver disease, kidney disease, diabetes, gout, elevated uric acid levels in your blood, as well as alcohol consumption.
Alcohol use can augment the risk of liver disease. Abstain from consuming alcoholic beverages while undergoing this medication.
Pyrazinamide might impede the effectiveness of live bacterial vaccines, such as the typhoid vaccine. Notify your healthcare professional about your usage of pyrazinamide before undergoing any immunizations or vaccinations.
During pregnancy, the usage of this medication should only be contemplated if it’s necessary. Deliberate the potential risks and benefits with your doctor.
This medication does pass into breast milk. Engaging in a thorough discussion with your doctor before making a decision about breastfeeding is advisable.
Form and Strength
Pyrazinamide is available in the following forms and strengths:
-
pyrazinamide tablet:
- 500mg
FAQ
How long should I take Pyrazinamide?
Treatment of active tuberculosis (TB) requires taking antibiotics for many months. Most people with active TB infection will need to take Pyrazinamide along with three other anti-TB antibiotics for the first 2 months of treatment.
How does Pyrazinamide cause high uric acid levels?
Pyrazinamide blocks the kidneys’ ability to get rid of uric acid from your body. This often causes uric acid to build up in the body, resulting in high uric acid levels. Having high uric acid levels doesn’t usually cause problems, but it can sometimes lead to gout.
Resources
- https://www.goodrx.com/pyrazinamide/what-is#faqs
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682402.html
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/pyrazinamide-oral-route/description/drg-20065679
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-7398/pyrazinamide-oral/details#:~:text=Pyrazinamide%20is%20used%20with%20other,as%20common%20cold%2C%20flu)
- https://www.drugs.com/mtm/pyrazinamide.html