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Ethambutol vs. Pyrazinamide

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Ethambutol (Myambutol) and pyrazinamide are both antitubercular agents used to treat active tuberculosis (TB). They are taken with other TB antibiotics like isoniazid and rifampin. Ethambutol (Myambutol) is available as a generic and is taken once daily, with the dose based on body weight. It can cause vision problems, so regular eye exams are necessary. Pyrazinamide is also available as a generic tablet and can be taken once daily or a few times per week. It can cause joint pain and increase uric acid levels, which might lead to gout. Both medications can affect the liver, so liver function needs to be monitored. Ethambutol (Myambutol) is not recommended for children under 13, while pyrazinamide is safe for children. Ethambutol (Myambutol) is also used off-label for some Mycobacteria infections, unlike pyrazinamide.

Ethambutol

(Myambutol)

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Pyrazinamide

 

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Summary for Ethambutol

Prescription only

Ethambutol, also known by its brand name Myambutol, is an antibiotic that's used to treat tuberculosis (TB) for people over 13 years old. It's taken with other TB antibiotics as part of a first-choice treatment plan. Ethambutol (Myambutol) works by stopping TB bacteria from growing and surviving. Your dose is based on your body weight. In general, this antibiotic is taken by mouth once a day. Ethambutol (Myambutol) can cause vision problems as a side effect. You'll need to get your eyes checked periodically while you're taking this medication.

Indications for Ethambutol

Pros and Cons for Ethambutol

Pros

  • One of the main medications used to treat TB
  • Can take with or without food
  • Taken once a day

Cons

  • Must take with other TB antibiotics
  • Risk of vision problems
  • Not approved for children younger than 13 years old

Common Side Effects for Ethambutol

  • Blurry vision
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Upset stomach
  • Stomach pain
  • Fever
  • Feeling unwell
  • Headache
  • Dizziness

Warnings for Ethambutol

  • Vision problems
  • Liver injury

Summary for Pyrazinamide

Prescription only

Pyrazinamide is an antibiotic that treats active tuberculosis (TB). It's taken together with other anti-TB medications, such as isoniazid and rifampin. Pyrazinamide can cause side effects like joint or muscle ache, nausea, and vomiting. This medication can also affect the liver and raise your risk for gout. Pyrazinamide is available as a lower-cost generic tablet.

Indications for Pyrazinamide

  • Treatment of active tuberculosis (TB)

Pros and Cons for Pyrazinamide

Pros

  • One of the first-choice medications used to treat active TB
  • Usually taken for 2 months
  • Can take once per day or a few times per week, depending on your dosing schedule
  • Safe for children to take

Cons

  • Must take with other anti-TB antibiotics
  • Not a good option for people with severe liver problems
  • Can worsen gout and shouldn't be used in people with recent gout flares
  • Only available in tablet form

Common Side Effects for Pyrazinamide

  • Mild joint or muscle ache
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Loss of appetite

Warnings for Pyrazinamide

  • Liver injury
  • Gout
  • Caution in people with diabetes

Prices with our coupons for Ethambutol vs. Pyrazinamide

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Ethambutol60 tablets / 400mg
$26.61$88.16
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Pyrazinamide90 tablets / 500mg
$82.79$481.06
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