Dosage and Frequency: The typical dosage of ethambutol for the treatment of tuberculosis is weight-based and usually ranges from 15 to 25 mg/kg body weight per day. It is commonly taken once daily or divided into two doses.
Route of Administration (ROA): Ethambutol is usually administered orally, either in tablet or liquid form.
Mechanism of Action (MOA): Ethambutol inhibits the synthesis of mycobacterial cell wall components, particularly arabinogalactan and lipoarabinomannan. This disruption weakens the cell wall structure of Mycobacterium tuberculosis, making it more susceptible to other anti-tuberculosis drugs.
Pharmacokinetics (PK): Ethambutol is well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract after oral administration. It distributes well into body tissues, including the lungs where it acts against Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It undergoes minimal metabolism in the liver and is primarily eliminated through the kidneys.
Pathophysiology: Ethambutol disrupts the synthesis of mycobacterial cell wall components, leading to cell wall weakening and eventual death of Mycobacterium tuberculosis.
Indications: Ethambutol is primarily used in the treatment of tuberculosis, often as part of a multi-drug regimen.
Contraindications: Ethambutol should be used with caution in patients with optic neuritis or other visual disturbances, as it can cause ocular toxicity. It is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to ethambutol or any of its components.
Drug Interactions: Ethambutol may interact with certain medications, such as antacids containing aluminum hydroxide, which can reduce its absorption when taken concurrently.
Precautions: Patients taking ethambutol should undergo regular ophthalmologic examinations to monitor for signs of optic neuritis or other visual disturbances. It should be used cautiously in patients with renal impairment, as dose adjustments may be necessary.
Monitoring and Laboratory Tests: Monitoring of renal function, liver function, and visual acuity is recommended during ethambutol therapy. Regular eye examinations, including visual acuity and color vision tests, are important to detect any ocular toxicity.
Storage and Disposal: Ethambutol should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Unused or expired medication should be disposed of properly according to local regulations.
Emergency Situations: In case of overdose or adverse reactions, immediate medical attention should be sought. Symptoms of ethambutol toxicity may include visual disturbances, gastrointestinal upset, and neurological symptoms.
Medication Information and Guidelines
Purpose: Ethambutol is primarily used in the treatment of tuberculosis (TB) infections caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis bacteria. It is often used as part of a multidrug regimen to effectively treat TB.
Usage: Ethambutol is typically taken orally, usually once a day or as directed by a healthcare provider. It can be taken with or without food. It’s important to follow the prescribed dosage and complete the full course of treatment, even if symptoms improve before the medication is finished.
Other Uses: Occasionally, ethambutol may be prescribed to treat other mycobacterial infections or in combination with other antibiotics for non-TB infections, but this is less common.
Precautions: Ethambutol may cause ocular toxicity, particularly affecting vision and color perception. Regular eye exams are recommended during treatment. If you experience any changes in vision, such as blurriness or difficulty distinguishing colors, notify your healthcare provider immediately.
Dietary Considerations: There are no specific dietary restrictions associated with ethambutol use. However, it’s important to maintain a healthy and balanced diet to support overall health and recovery from TB.
Missed Dose: If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Side Effects: Common side effects of ethambutol may include gastrointestinal upset (nausea, vomiting, stomach pain), headache, dizziness, and joint pain. Less commonly, it may cause vision changes, peripheral neuropathy, or liver toxicity.
Storage and Disposal: Store ethambutol tablets at room temperature away from light and moisture. Keep it out of reach of children. Dispose of any unused medication properly, following local guidelines or medication take-back programs if available.
Emergency Situations: In case of an overdose, seek medical attention immediately. Overdose symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, dizziness, and difficulty breathing. If you experience severe vision changes or allergic reactions (such as rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing), seek emergency medical care.