Ethambutol

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Information about Ethambutol[edit source]

Ethambutol is a first line but adjunctive antituberculosis medication which is used only in combination with other agents such as isoniazid and rifampin. Ethambutol therapy has been associated with minor, transient and asymptomatic elevations in serum aminotransferase levels, but is a rare cause of clinically apparent acute liver injury.

Mechanism of action of Ethambutol[edit source]

Ethambutol (eth am' bue tol) is a semisynthetic antibiotic which is bacteriostatic against mycobacterium tuberculosis. Ethambutol interferes with the incorporation of mycolic acid into the mycobacterial cell wall, thus inhibiting its cell wall synthesis. Ethambutol has a broader spectrum of activity against mycobacterial species than isoniazid or rifampin and is therefore used largely in patients with suspected resistance or in atypical mycobacterial infections. Ethambutol is available in generic forms in tablets of 100 and 400 mg. The recommended dose is 15 mg/kg once daily in combination with other antituberculosis medications such as isoniazid, rifampin, pyrazinamide, and streptomycin. Higher doses are recommended for patients being retreated after a relapse. Common side effects include gastrointestinal upset, nausea, dizziness, fever, and rash.


The following are list of antituberculosis medications that are discussed individually:

Ethambutol Resources

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