Ethambutol
Also sold as: Myambutol
Prescription neededTB medicines
Comes as:Tablet
Usual adult dose
Dose is set by your doctor as part of TB treatment and depends on body weight. Taken once a day, usually in the first 2 months. Never stop TB treatment early.
Your doctor may give you a different dose. Children's doses depend on weight.
Side effects
Common
- nausea
- loss of appetite
- joint pain
Serious — get help
Stop taking it and see a doctor straight away if you notice:
- blurred vision
- trouble telling red from green
- eye pain — see a doctor at once
Do not take it, or take care, if
- Existing eye disease affecting vision (optic neuritis)
- Young children who cannot report vision changes (use with caution)
- Kidney disease (dose must be lowered)
Interactions
Medicines that can react with this one.
Minor1 medicineUsually not a problem, but tell your doctor.
- Aluminium hydroxide + Magnesium hydroxide
Antacids can reduce absorption; leave a few hours between them.