Ethambutol
Ethambutol
Chemical compound
Ethambutol (EMB, E) is a medication primarily used to treat tuberculosis.[4] It is usually given in combination with other tuberculosis medications, such as isoniazid, rifampicin and pyrazinamide.[5] It may also be used to treat Mycobacterium avium complex, and Mycobacterium kansasii.[4] It is taken by mouth.[4]
Common side effects include problems with vision, joint pain, nausea, headaches, and feeling tired.[4] Other side effects include liver problems and allergic reactions.[4] It is not recommended in people with optic neuritis, significant kidney problems, or under the age of five.[5] Use during pregnancy or breastfeeding has not been found to cause harm.[5][6] In the United States the FDA has raised concerns about eye issues in the baby if used during pregnancy.[4] Ethambutol is believed to work by interfering with the bacteria's metabolism.[4]
Ethambutol was discovered in 1961.[7] It is on the World Health Organization's List of Essential Medicines[8] and is available as a generic medication.[1]