Ethambutol is used together with other medicines to treat a lung infection known as tuberculosis (TB).
Take this medicine exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not take more or less than instructed by your doctor.
Take Ethambutol together with food or immediately after a meal.
Ethambutol must be taken at regular intervals for it to be effective. Continue to take this medicine even when you feel better. Do not stop taking it unless instructed by the doctor.
Do not skip any doses. You must complete the entire course of antibiotic. If you don't, the infection will not be properly controlled.
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.
DO NOT double a dose under any circumstances.
If you often forget to take your medicine, let your doctor and pharmacist know.
Alert your doctor if you have a condition called “optic neuritis” or other types of eye disease.
Alert your doctor if you ever had an allergic reaction (breathlessness, rashes, swollen eyes) to Ethambutol.
Inform your doctor if you have kidney disease.
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Before you being treatment with Ethambutol, be sure that your doctor has performed an eye examination on you. For as long as you are being treated with this medicine, you will need to have regular eye examinations and blood tests to monitor your body's response to Ethambutol. Your doctor will advise you about how often you need to have these tests.
By itself, this medicine cannot cure TB. Make sure that you take the other TB medicines given to you by your doctor.
What must I do to prevent spreading TB to other people?
TB is spread through the air, especially when you cough, sneeze or laugh.
You may still be able to infect others while undergoing treatment for TB. If your doctor has told you to stay at home so that you do not spread TB to other people, follow his instructions. You may need to sleep in a bedroom separate from your family members.
Always cover your mouth when you cough, sneeze or laugh.
If you use tissue paper, seal it in a plastic bag before you throw it away.
Ethambutol may cause dizziness and visual disturbances. If affected, do not drive or take part in any activity in which you need to be alert.
If you develop rashes, breathlessness, swollen mouth or eyes, stop the medicine and inform your doctor quickly. These could be signs of an allergic reaction.
Some side effects may need immediate medical help. Alert your doctor quickly if you experience yellowing of the skin or eyes.
Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
This medicine should not be taken with antacids as antacids could reduce the effectiveness of this medicine. If you must take antacids, take between meals at least 2 hours after you have taken this medicine.
Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
Avoid alcohol. Alcohol can increase your risk of experiencing liver problems.
Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children. Protect from light.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.
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