GENERIC NAME: PYRAZINAMIDE - ORAL (pir-uh-ZIN-uh-mide)

Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage

USES: This medication is used in the treatment of tuberculosis. It is often used in combination with other anti-tuberculosis medications. Use of only rifampin and pyrazinamide as a two-drug, two-month therapy to treat tuberculosis (specifically "latent" TB infection) is no longer recommended. Infrequently, serious (sometimes fatal) liver disease has occurred with the use of these two drugs alone. Several other effective alternative treatments can be used to treat latent tuberculosis (e.g., isoniazid for 9 months). Use of rifampin and pyrazinamide as part of a multi-drug (3 or more drugs) treatment plan for tuberculosis is still acceptable. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details.

HOW TO USE: Take this medication as prescribed. To be most effective, be sure to take each dose on time. Try not to miss any doses. Do not increase your dose or take this more often than directed. It is important to continue taking this for the full time prescribed. Sometimes it is necessary to take this for 2 months or longer to be sure the infection is completely cleared. This medication is usually given once a day, but may be divided into 3 or 4 doses if needed. In some cases, this medication is given only twice a week. Talk to your doctor about this alternative dosing schedule.

SIDE EFFECTS: Stomach upset, muscle aches or acne may occur the first several days as your body adjusts to the medication. If any of these effects continue or become bothersome, inform your doctor. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: fever, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, dark urine, yellowing eyes or skin, weakness, pain or swelling of the joints. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor if you have: kidney problems, liver disease, gout, diabetes, allergies (especially drug allergies). This medication should be used only if clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. Since small amounts of this medication are found in breast milk, consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

From the Doctors at MedicineNet.com

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