Pyrazinamide
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Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA), UK(BNF)
WHO Essential Medicine
YES
Known Teratogen
NO
Pharmaceutical Class
Antimycobacterial
Controlled Drug Substance
NO
Pyrazinamide
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Click HereSummary
Pyrazinamide is an antibiotic used to treat active tuberculosis (TB), a bacterial infection that affects the lungs and sometimes other parts of your body.
Pyrazinamide works by killing or stopping the growth of the bacteria that cause TB. It is converted into its active form inside TB bacteria, disrupting their ability to grow. It works best in acidic environments like inside infected cells.
Pyrazinamide is taken orally, usually once daily. For adults, the usual dose is 15-30 mg/kg with a maximum of 2 grams per day. In children, the dose is 20-40 mg/kg daily. The exact dose depends on weight.
Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, joint pain, and loss of appetite. The most serious risk is liver toxicity, which may cause yellowing of the skin, dark urine, or abdominal pain.
People with severe liver disease, gout, or an allergy to Pyrazinamide should avoid it. It should also be used cautiously in those with kidney problems or diabetes due to the risk of worsening these conditions. Alcohol should be completely avoided as it increases the risk of liver damage.
Indications and Purpose
How does one know if Pyrazinamide is working?
Improvement in cough, fever, weight gain, and energy levels indicates the medicine is working. Regular sputum tests and chest X-rays help doctors monitor treatment response.
How does Pyrazinamide work?
Pyrazinamide is converted into its active form inside TB bacteria, disrupting their ability to grow. It works best in acidic environments, like inside infected cells, making it particularly useful in TB treatment.
Is Pyrazinamide effective?
Yes, Pyrazinamide is highly effective when used in combination with other TB drugs. Studies show that it shortens TB treatment duration and improves cure rates, especially during the intensive treatment phase.
What is Pyrazinamide?
Pyrazinamide is a type of antibiotic used to treat tuberculosis (TB), a bacterial infection that can affect your lungs and other parts of your body. It works by killing or stopping the growth of the bacteria that cause TB. Pyrazinamide is absorbed from the stomach and intestines, reaching its highest levels in the blood within 2 hours. It then distributes throughout the body. It's available as a 500 mg tablet.
What is Pyrazinamide used for?
It is used to treat active tuberculosis (TB), a bacterial infection affecting the lungs and sometimes other body parts. Pyrazinamide is not used alone but combined with other TB drugs to prevent resistance and improve effectiveness.
Directions for Use
For how long do I take Pyrazinamide?
Pyrazinamide is typically taken for two months in the intensive phase of TB treatment, along with other TB drugs. The full course of TB treatment usually lasts six months or longer, depending on the patient’s response.
How do I take Pyrazinamide?
Pyrazinamide is taken orally, usually once daily. It can be taken with or without food, but if it causes stomach upset, taking it with food may help. Avoid alcohol, as it increases the risk of liver damage.
How long does it take for Pyrazinamide to start working?
Pyrazinamide begins working within a few days, but TB symptoms may take weeks to months to improve. Patients must complete the full treatment course even if they start feeling better to prevent drug-resistant TB.
How should I store Pyrazinamide?
Store Pyrazinamide at room temperature (20-25°C) in a dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep it out of reach of children.
What is the usual dose of Pyrazinamide?
For adults, the usual dose is 15–30 mg/kg once daily, with a maximum of 2 grams per day. In children, the dose is 20–40 mg/kg daily. The exact dose depends on weight and is usually prescribed as part of a combination regimen for TB treatment.
Warnings and Precautions
Can I take Pyrazinamide with other prescription drugs?
Yes, but drug interactions may occur with medications like rifampin (increased liver toxicity risk), allopurinol (used for gout), and diabetes medications. Inform your doctor about all other medicines you are taking.
Can I take Pyrazinamide with vitamins or supplements?
Yes, but avoid high-dose vitamin C as it may increase acidity in the body, potentially affecting the medicine's effectiveness. Always inform your doctor about any supplements you take.
Can Pyrazinamide be taken safely while breastfeeding?
Yes, Pyrazinamide is considered safe while breastfeeding. It passes into breast milk in small amounts, but it does not harm the baby. Doctors monitor both mother and baby closely during treatment.
Can Pyrazinamide be taken safely while pregnant?
Pyrazinamide is generally safe during pregnancy, but it should only be used if necessary. Some doctors avoid it due to limited safety data. TB in pregnancy must be treated to prevent risks to both mother and baby.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Pyrazinamide?
No, alcohol should be completely avoided, as it increases the risk of liver damage. Even occasional drinking can be harmful during TB treatment.
Is it safe to exercise while taking Pyrazinamide?
Yes, but moderate activity is recommended. TB itself can cause weakness, so avoid strenuous exercise until you feel better.
Is Pyrazinamide safe for the elderly?
Yes, but elderly patients are more at risk for liver toxicity and gout. Regular monitoring of liver function and uric acid levels is important for safety.
Who should avoid taking Pyrazinamide?
People with severe liver disease, gout, or an allergy to Pyrazinamide should avoid it. It should be used cautiously in those with kidney problems or diabetes due to the risk of worsening these conditions.
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