Pyrazinamide

Description

Pyrazinamide is an anti-tuberculosis medicine that works by killing or preventi

ng the growth of bacteria that causes tuberculosis (commonly called TB).

Uses

Contraindications

Side effects

Precautions and Warnings

Uses

This medicine is used to treat tuberculosis. It is an antibiotic that treats only bacterial infections. Pyrazinamide is always given in combination with other anti-tuberculosis agents.

Contraindications

When should one not use Pyrazinamide

Severe liver damage
Diabetes
Gout or abnormal high amount of uric acid in blood
Habit of drinking too much of alcohol
Allergic reaction to this medicine and any of its components
Condition in which high porphyria seen in blood and urine

Side effects

Common side effects of this drug are:

Nausea
Vomiting
Stomach upset
Loss of appetite
Mild muscle or joint pain
Fatigue

Precautions and Warnings

Pregnancy

Can I take Pyrazinamide during pregnancy?

This medication should be used only with the doctor's prescription.

Breast Feeding

Can I take Pyrazinamide while breastfeeding?

This medicine passes into breast milk and effects on a nursing infant. Hence it is not recommended during breastfeeding.

Driving

Can I drive if I have consumed Pyrazinamide?

There are no adequate evidences of this medicine regarding this aspect.

Alcohol

Can I consume alcohol with Pyrazinamide?

Alcoholic beverages should be avoided while doing this medication. It may increase the risk of liver disease.

Other General Warnings

Talk to your doctor if

If you have kidney disease
If you are diabetic
If you suffer from lactose intolerance
If any immunizations/ vaccinations while following Pyrazinamide medication, unless your doctor asks you to do so

Mode of Action

How Does It Work?

This medicine stops the growth of organism mycobacterium tuberculosis. It reaches the site of infection where the tuberculosis bacteria releases chemicals and inhibits its action and thereby preventin...

Interactions

Interactions with other medicines

This medicine has interactions with many medicines such as: Leflunomide, Teriflunomide, BCG vaccine, cholera vaccine, Isoniazid, Rifampicin, Lomitapide, Mipomersen, Brentuximab, Efavirenz, Tenofvir, I...

Interactions with food items

This medicine has interactions with food like aged cheese, few types of fish, dried meat, etc.

Dietary Restrictions

You may need to avoid certain foods while you are taking Pyrazinamide. It includes red wine, aged cheese, dried meats and tuna or any other fish.

Dosage

Overdose

If anyone has overdosed with Pyrazinamide, one can suffer from breathing problems. Sputum test, kidney/ liver function, uric acid levels, complete blood count should be performed periodically.

Missed a Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as quick as possible. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip it and do not double the dose.

Content Details

WRITTEN BY

Dr. Mansi Savla

B. Pharm, PharmD

REVIEWED BY

Dr. Ritu Budania

MBBS, MD (Pharmacology)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What should I discuss with my healthcare expert before taking this medicine?

A: Give a detailed account of your medical and surgical history. Also, mention to your doctor all the prescription and non-prescription medicines, herbal preparations and nutritional supplements that you may be taking before starting this medication.