Introduction
Ethambutol 400 mg tablet is a prescription medicine used to treat tuberculosis (TB), a bacterial infection that mainly affects the lungs but can also spread to other parts of the body.
It belongs to a group of medicines called antituberculosis drugs, which help kill or stop the growth of the bacteria that cause TB.
Doctors usually prescribe Ethambutol along with other TB medicines such as isoniazid, rifampicin, or pyrazinamide to make the treatment more effective and prevent drug resistance.
Uses of Ethambutol 400 mg
Ethambutol is used for:
- Treating active tuberculosis (TB) in the lungs or other parts of the body
- Preventing TB spread in people who have been exposed to the bacteria
- Combination therapy with other TB medicines to stop bacterial growth and reduce resistance
It’s not effective for viral or fungal infections—only for bacterial infections caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis.
Ingredients of Ethambutol 400 mg Tablet
Each tablet contains:
Active ingredient: Ethambutol Hydrochloride – 400 mg
How Ethambutol Works
Ethambutol works by blocking the bacteria’s ability to form a protective cell wall.
Without this wall, the TB bacteria cannot grow or multiply and eventually die.
Because TB bacteria can easily become resistant, Ethambutol is always used with other TB medicines. This combination approach ensures the infection is treated completely and reduces the chance of relapse.
Dosage and Administration
Your doctor will decide the correct dose based on your age, weight, and the severity of infection. However, here’s the usual guide:
- Adults: The usual dose is 15–25 mg per kilogram of body weight once daily. For example, someone weighing 60 kg may take one or more tablets totaling around 900–1500 mg daily.
- Children: The dose is adjusted by weight and prescribed by a doctor.
How to take it:
- Swallow the tablet whole with water.
- Take it at the same time each day for the best results.
- It can be taken with or without food, but if it upsets your stomach, take it after meals.
- Never skip doses—missing doses can cause the bacteria to become resistant.
Possible Side Effects of Ethambutol
Like all medicines, Ethambutol may cause side effects in some people. Most are mild and go away with time, but some require medical attention.
Common side effects:
- Nausea or vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Stomach upset
- Headache
- Dizziness
Serious side effects (seek medical help immediately):
- Vision problems – blurred vision, difficulty seeing colors, or loss of vision (Ethambutol can rarely affect the optic nerve)
- Allergic reactions – rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing
- Numbness or tingling in hands and feet
If you notice any changes in vision while taking Ethambutol, stop the medicine and contact your doctor right away.
Precautions and Warnings
- Do not take Ethambutol if you are allergic to it.
- Use with caution if you have kidney disease or eye problems.
- Your doctor may recommend regular eye checkups during treatment.
- Avoid alcohol—it can increase the risk of liver damage when combined with TB medicines.
- Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is Ethambutol used for?
Ethambutol is used to treat tuberculosis (TB), usually in combination with other TB medicines.
2. Can I take Ethambutol alone?
No. Ethambutol should always be taken with other TB drugs to prevent bacterial resistance and ensure complete treatment.
4. Does Ethambutol affect vision?
In rare cases, Ethambutol can cause vision problems. Regular eye exams are important during treatment. Contact your doctor immediately if you notice blurry vision or trouble seeing colors.
5. Can I drink alcohol while taking Ethambutol?
It’s best to avoid alcohol during TB treatment, as it increases the risk of liver damage.
6. How long do I need to take Ethambutol?
Treatment usually lasts 6 months or longer, depending on the type and severity of TB. Follow your doctor’s full treatment plan.
7. Is Ethambutol safe for children?
Yes, Ethambutol can be used in children, but the dose is carefully adjusted by a doctor according to body weight.
Conclusion
Ethambutol 400 mg tablet is an important medicine used in the treatment of tuberculosis. It works by stopping TB bacteria from growing and spreading in the body.
