Ethambutol

Uses of Ethambutol

Ethambutol is commonly used to treat tuberculosis.

How Ethambutol Works

Ethambutol is an antimycobacterial which have bacteriostatic properties against susceptible bacteria. It inhibits the synthesis of bacterial metabolites and thus preventing cellular metabolism and multiplication.

Side Effects of Ethambutol

Visual disturbances, Optic neuritis, Abdominal pain, Nausea, Vomiting, Fever, Hyperuricemia, Jaundice, Hypersensitivity reactions, Headache, Dizziness, Peripheral neuropathy

Information About Ethambutol

Ethambutol is a bacteriostatic antimycobacterial agent used as part of combination therapy for active tuberculosis in Singapore. Available as a 100mg–400mg oral tablet taken once daily, it is HSA-registered and available on prescription only in Singapore. Monthly monitoring of visual acuity and colour discrimination is mandatory during therapy as ethambutol causes dose-dependent optic neuritis — patients should promptly report any blurred vision or reduced colour perception and the drug should be discontinued immediately if these occur. A valid doctor's consultation is required before dispensing. Order Ethambutol online at DoctorOnCall Singapore with same-day delivery available. Speak to a DoctorOnCall physician today to check if Ethambutol is right for you.


Ethambutol is an antibiotic medication commonly used as part of combination therapy to treat tuberculosis (TB). It works by interfering with the formation of the bacterial cell wall, helping stop the growth and spread of Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Ethambutol belongs to a class of medications known as antimycobacterial agents and is widely used in tuberculosis treatment and infectious disease care. Find affordable Ethambutol options from trusted brands at DoctorOnCall.

Conclusion

Consult our doctors online for safe and effective use of Ethambutol tailored to your health needs. Find the best prices for affordable Ethambutol tablets at DoctorOnCall Singapore.


Warnings

Kidney Use With Care

Before starting this drug, it is necessary to check the renal function and modify the dose appropriately. It is preferable to avoid Ethambutol in patients with renal impairment but if required, the dose must be reduced and the plasma-drug concentration needs to be monitored. This is because the toxicity may be enhanced by the impaired renal function.

Alcohol Not Advisable

It is not advisable to consume alcohol while on treatment with Ethambutol. There is limited data on possible interactions that might occur. On the long run, alcohol can affect the liver and with possible effect of Ethambutol on the liver, it is not advisable to consume alcohol within the treatment period.

Pregnancy Not Safe

Animal studies have demonstrated that there is an adverse effect on the fetus, however, there are limited human studies on usage of Ethambutol in pregnancy. Thus, it is best to avoid using Ethambutol during pregnancy unless the benefits outweigh the potential risks.

Driving Not advisable

Do not drive unless you are feeling well. Ethambutol may cause side effects such as blurred vision, dizziness, disorientation or numbness, all of which could affect the ability to concentrate and drive.

Liver Limited Data

If patients develop symptoms suggestive of hepatitis or suddenly become unwell during the treatment, it is recommended to perform liver function tests in such patients.

Lactation Limited Data

Based on human studies, Ethambutol or its metabolites is found in breastfed infants of women on treatment. However, there is limited data on the safety profile of Ethambutol to be used during breastfeeding. Therefore, it is not recommended to use Ethambutol unless the benefits outweigh the possible risks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Written by

Dr. Adeline Carol Peters

, Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) — Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE)

Reviewed by

Dr. Mohd Izzat Amir Bin Awang

, Doctor of Medicine (MD), University of Mansoura - Manchester