Pyrazinamide is used to treat tuberculosis.
What is Pyrazinamide?
Pyrazinamide is an antituberculosis agent. It works by killing or preventing the growth of certain bacteria that cause tuberculosis or blocking its growth. Its mechanisms have not yet been completely clarified though it does partly play a role in the accumulation of bacterial cells of pyrazinoic acid. In turn, pyrazinamide is converted by an enzyme of the same bacteria that it kills.
How should Pyrazinamide be taken?
Pyrazinamide is administered orally, generally in the form of tablets. It should be taken in combination with other drugs.
Side effects associated with Pyrazinamide
Among the possible side effects of pyrazinamide include the following:
- Mild muscle or joint pain
- Muscle or joint sensitivity
It is important to contact a doctor immediately if you experience:
- Rash
- Urticaria
- Itch
- Difficulty breathing
- Feeling of tightness in the chest
- Swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue
- Dark urine
- Decreased urination
- Fever
- Malaise
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea
- Pain or joint swelling
- Severe dizziness
- Stomach ache
- Breathing problems
- Bleeding or bruising
- Weakness or tiredness
- Vomiting
- Jaundice
Contraindications and warnings associated with the use of Pyrazinamide
Pyrazinamide may affect the results of some laboratory tests.
Before starting treatment with pyrazinamide, it is important to tell your doctor if:
- You have any allergies to the active substance, its excipients or any other drugs or food
- You are taking any other medications, herbal remedies or supplements. Mentioning in particular: rifampin
- You are suffering (or have suffered) from gout, severe liver problems, kidney disease, porphyria, diabetes, or HIV infection
- You are regularly consuming alcohol
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding
