Ethambutol Uses, Side Effects, Contraindication

Introduction: Ethambutol Is an antibiotic. It works by slowing the growth of TB disease causing
bacteria. Ethambutol belongs to a class of anti-TB drugs. Suppresses the growth of TB-causing
bacteria (Mycobacterium tuberculosis). Ethambutol kills bacteria by entering the growing bacteria,
inhibiting the arabinosyl transferase, an important enzyme that participates in the formation of the
outer protective covering of the bacteria's cell wall.

Side effect are nausea or vomiting, abdominal Pain (mild) , joint pain, headache, dizziness, fever, red
spots, blurred vision, hepatitis are few of the most commonly reported side effects.
Contraindications: If you have any of these diseases, do not take Ethambutol as it may worsen your
condition. If your doctor considers it appropriate, you can take Ethambutol despite suffering from
these diseases - Kidney disease, Liver disease, Diabetic retinopathy
Toxicity
The most commonly recognized toxic effect of ethambutol is optic neuropathy, which generally is
considered uncommon and reversible in medical literature. Other side effects that have been
observed are pruritus, joint pain, gastrointestinal upset, abdominal pain, malaise, headache,
dizziness, mental confusion, disorientation, and possible hallucinations.
Drugs interaction: Avoid taking an antacid containing aluminum hydroxide within 4 hour after you
take ethambutol.

Conclusion: Ethambutol is used for tuberculosis or TB. (Tuberculosis; Tuberculosis). Ethambutol is
mostly used for all those T.B. Effective against bacteria that fall into the mycobacterium group, such
as M. tuberculosis, M. avium complex, M. kansasii, M. marinum.