Ethionamide

Expert Advice

Dosage Forms Available

• Ethionamide is available for oral use in the form of tablets.

Age and Dose Restrictions

• This medicine is designed for use in adults and children aged 12 years and above.

Contraindications

• Ethionamide is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to it or any of its components.

• It is also contraindicated in patients with severe hepatic impairment or acute liver disease and in patients suffering from severe depression or psychosis.

Other Medications to Avoid

• Ethionamide may interact with other antibiotics (like isoniazid and cycloserine), as well as medications that may alter its effectiveness (such as sodium picosulfate, magnesium oxide, and anhydrous citric acid).

Overdose and Missed Dose

• Symptoms of an overdose of Ethionamide may include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, confusion, and seizures. 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, do not double your 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.

• Take this medication with or immediately after meals to minimise gastrointestinal side effects such as nausea and vomiting.

• Keep well-hydrated to help manage symptoms such as diarrhoea.

Use in Driving and Operating Machinery

• Ethionamide may cause dizziness, drowsiness or confusion, which may affect your ability to drive or operate machinery. If you experience these side effects, avoid these activities.

Use in Pregnancy and Lactation

• The use of Ethionamide during pregnancy and breastfeeding is a subject that needs careful consideration and should be discussed with your doctor.

Caution in Other Conditions

• Patients with liver disease or a history of hepatitis should exercise caution when taking Ethionamide. Liver function tests should be monitored regularly.

• Patients with renal impairment should also use caution, and dose adjustments may be necessary.

Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations

• It is recommended that patients with tuberculosis maintain a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals to support the immune system.

• Regular light exercise can help improve general well-being.

• Adequate rest is essential for recovery.

• A good hygiene practice, such as covering the mouth when coughing or sneezing, can help prevent the spread of the bacteria to others.

Frequently asked questions

Terms & Conditions