🍽️ ethambutol dihydrochloride (antibiotic)

Tuberculosis (TB): Ethambutol is a first-line drug used in combination with other antibiotics for the treatment of TB. It works by inhibiting the synthesis of cell wall components in mycobacteria, including Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the bacterium that causes TB. Ethambutol is effective against both actively dividing and dormant TB bacteria.

Multidrug-resistant Tuberculosis (MDR-TB): Ethambutol is also used in the treatment of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB), which is resistant to at least two of the most potent anti-TB drugs, isoniazid and rifampicin. It is often included in the multidrug regimen for MDR-TB treatment.

Side Effects: While ethambutol is generally well-tolerated, it can cause various side effects, including optic neuritis, which is inflammation of the optic nerve. Optic neuritis associated with ethambutol use can lead to visual disturbances such as blurred vision, decreased visual acuity, and changes in color vision. These visual side effects are dose-dependent and usually reversible upon discontinuation of the drug.

Monitoring: Patients receiving ethambutol therapy should undergo regular monitoring of visual acuity and color vision, as well as comprehensive eye examinations to detect any signs of optic neuritis. Ethambutol should be promptly discontinued if optic neuritis occurs.

Dosage Adjustments: Dosage adjustments may be necessary in patients with renal impairment to prevent drug accumulation and minimize the risk of toxicity.

Precautions: Ethambutol should be used with caution in patients with pre-existing eye conditions, such as cataracts or retinal disorders, as they may be at increased risk of developing optic neuritis.

Resistance: The emergence of ethambutol-resistant strains of Mycobacterium tuberculosis is a concern in TB treatment. Resistance to ethambutol can develop due to mutations in the bacterial genes involved in drug action.

Combination Therapy: Ethambutol is typically used in combination with other first-line anti-TB drugs, such as isoniazid, rifampicin, and pyrazinamide, to achieve optimal treatment outcomes and prevent the development of drug resistance.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Ethambutol should be used with caution during pregnancy and breastfeeding, and the potential risks and benefits should be carefully considered by healthcare providers when prescribing the drug to pregnant or lactating women.

Drug Interactions: Ethambutol may interact with other medications, and healthcare providers should review the patient's medication list to identify potential drug interactions and adjust therapy accordingly.