Pyrazinamide 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 Pyrazinamide together with food or immediately after a meal.
Pyrazinamide must be taken at regular intervals. 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 the following:
- liver disease
- an inherited disorder that may cause skin or nerve problems called “porphyria”
- acute gout
as this medicine may not be suitable for you.
Do not take Pyrazinamide if you ever had an allergic reaction (breathlessness, rashes, swollen eyes) to this medicine.
Inform your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- kidney disease
- history of gout
- diabetes
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
For as long as you are being treated with Pyrazinamide, you will need to have regular blood tests to monitor your body's response to the medicine. Your doctor will advise you about how often you need to have blood tests.
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.
Pyrazinamide may cause any of the following side effects: nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, tiredness, joint and muscle pain.
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 any other side effects.
Inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any of these medicines:
- other TB medicines e.g. rifampicin
- medicines for gout e.g. sulfinpyrazone, probenecid
- medicines used in organ transplant or certain immune disorders e.g. ciclosporin
This list does not include all medicines that may interact with Pyrazinamide.
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.
Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.
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