Ethambutol (By Mouth)

Ethambutol (e-THAM-byoo-tole)

Treats tuberculosis (TB).

Brand Name(s):

Myambutol
There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you have ever had an allergic reaction to ethambutol or if you have damaged eye nerves (optic neuritis).

How to Use This Medicine:

Tablet

• Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to take and how often.
• Ethambutol can be taken with food to avoid stomach upset.
• Take this medicine on a regular schedule. Keep taking it even if you are feeling better. Your doctor will tell you when you can stop taking it.

If a dose is missed:

• Take the missed dose as soon as possible.
• Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next regular dose.
• You should not use two doses at the same time.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

• Store at room temperature and protect from direct heat, moisture, and light.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor before taking this medicine.
• Check with your doctor before taking ethambutol if you have gout, kidney disease, or liver disease.
• This medicine may cause blurred vision. If it does, avoid driving or using dangerous machinery.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Any vision changes such as blurring, color blindness, trouble seeing
• Eye pain
• Swelling of face, lips, throat
• Hives
• Wheezing or trouble breathing
• Numbness, pain, or tingling in hands or feet
• Joint pain
• Fever or chills
• Skin rash

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Stomach pain
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Poor appetite

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.