Cycloserine-oral


Patient Medicine Information
Why do I need this medicine?
Cycloserine is an antibiotic. It is used together with other medicines to treat a lung infection known as tuberculosis (TB).

This medicine may also be used to treat infections of the kidney, bladder or urethra.
How do I take this medicine?
Take Cycloserine 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.

You may take this medicine with or without food. If you experience any stomach discomfort, take it with food. Try to take it at the same time each day.

This medicine must be taken at regular intervals for it to be effective. Do not skip any dose. Continue taking this medicine even when you feel better. You must complete the entire course of the medicine. If you don't, the infection will not be properly controlled.
What should I do if I have forgotten to take this medicine?
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.
When should I not use this medicine?
Do not take Cycloserine if you ever had an allergic reaction (breathlessness, rashes, swollen eyes) to this medicine.

Alert your doctor if you have the following conditions:

- epilepsy (fits or seizure)
- mental illness e.g. severe anxiety, depression
- severe kidney disease
- excessive concurrent use of alcohol
as this medicine may not be suitable for you.
What should I take note of while taking this medicine?
Inform your doctor if you have the following conditions:

- mild or moderate kidney disease
- liver disease
- vitamin B12 deficiency
- folic acid deficiency

Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

For as long as you are taking this medicine, you may need to have routine tests for your blood Cycloserine concentration, kidney and liver function to check your body's response to the medicine. Your doctor will advise you about how often you need to have these tests.

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.
What side effects could I experience?
Cycloserine may cause drowsiness or dizziness. If affected, do not drive or take part in any activity in which you need to be alert.

Other side effects include any of the following: headache, rash, tremor, restlessness, unclear articulation of speech, numbness or tingling sensation in the hands and feet, overactive reflexes and muscle weakness.

Some side effects may need immediate medical help. Alert your doctor quickly if you experience any of the following:

- seizures
- having thoughts of self-harm
- unusual changes in mood or behaviour (being depressed)

Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Can I take this with other medicines?
Inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any of these medicines:

- medicines for epilepsy (fits or seizures) e.g. phenytoin
- other medicines for TB e.g. ethionamide, isoniazid

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.
What special dietary instructions should I follow?
Avoid alcohol. You are more likely to experience serious side effects such as seizures (fits) if you consume alcohol while being treated with Cycloserine.

Eat more of foods that are rich in vitamin B12 and folic acid. Sources of folic acid include cereals, leafy vegetables (spinach, broccoli, lettuce), bananas, melons, legumes, mushrooms, organ meat (liver, kidney), oranges and tomato juice. Sources of vitamin B12 include fish, shellfish, meat, and dairy products.
How should I store this medicine?
Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.

Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.
This information is independently developed by MIMS based on cycloserine-oral and is provided for your reference only. It is not a replacement for and should only be used in conjunction with full consultation with a licensed healthcare professional, the information provided by your pharmacist and/or the manufacturer of the medication. It may not contain all the available information you require and cannot substitute professional medical care, nor does it take into account all individual circumstances. Although great effort has been made to ensure content accuracy, we shall not be held responsible or liable for any claims or damages arising from the use or misuse of the information contained herein, its contents or omissions, or otherwise. Copyright © 2024 MIMS. All rights reserved. Powered by MIMS.com
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