Brand Name(s):
Generic Name Pyrazinamide
What are pyrazinamide tablets?
PYRAZINAMIDE (PZA) is an antibiotic that is used to treat or prevent tuberculosis infections. Other medicines for tuberculosis are used in combination with pyrazinamide; it should never be used alone. Generic pyrazinamide tablets are available.
What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
•If you frequently drink alcohol-containing beverages
•gout
•liver disease, including hepatitis
•previously experienced side effects to isoniazid (INH) treatment
•an unusual or allergic reaction to pyrazinamide, other medicines, foods, dyes or preservatives
•pregnant or trying to get pregnant
•breast-feeding
How should I take this medicine?
Take pyrazinamide tablets by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Swallow tablets whole with a full glass of water. Pyrazinamide can be taken with or without food. Take your doses at regular intervals and try not to miss any doses. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Finish the full course prescribed by your prescriber or health care professional even if you think your condition is better. Do not stop taking except on your prescriber's advice.
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.
What drug(s) may interact with pyrazinamide?
•alcohol
•allopurinol
•colchicine
•probenecid
•sulfinpyrazone
Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.
What side effects may I notice from taking pyrazinamide?
Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible:
•dark yellow or brown urine
•difficulty breathing, or difficulty swallowing
•fever
•loss of appetite
•reduced amount of urine passed
•unusual bleeding or bruising
•unusual tiredness or weakness
•yellowing of the eyes or skin
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
•muscle or joint aches and pains
•sensitivity to sun or ultraviolet light
•skin rash, itching
What should I watch for while taking pyrazinamide?
Pyrazinamide can cause serious liver problems, especially if you are also taking rifampin (Rifadin® or Rimactane®). Make sure you understand the risks for liver problems and how to identify the symptoms. If you have any questions, talk with your prescriber or other health care provider. Visit your prescriber or health care professional for regular checks and report any serious side effects promptly.
Keep taking your pyrazinamide even if you feel better. You may need to take this medicine for an extended period of time for a complete cure.
Avoid alcoholic drinks while you are taking pyrazinamide. Drinking alcohol during treatment with pyrazinamide increases the risk of serious liver problems.
Your skin may become more sensitive to sunlight. Keep out of the sun, or wear protective clothing outdoors and use a sunscreen. Do not use sun lamps or sun tanning beds or booths.
If you are diabetic note that pyrazinamide can interfere with urine ketone determination tests, such as Acetest® and Ketostix®, causing a pink-brown result. Check with your prescriber or health care professional before you change your diet or the dose of your diabetic medicine.
Where can I keep my medicine?
Keep out of the reach of children in a container that small children cannot open.
Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). keep container tightly closed. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.
| Available at: www.DrugDigest.org | Last Updated:05/06/2005 |
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