Schazobutol

Description

Schazobutol 400mg Tablet contains Ethambutol, an antituberculosis medicine. It works by preventing the growth of Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the bacteria that causes tuberculosis (TB). Ethambutol is not used alone — it is always part of a combination therapy with other antituberculosis drugs to prevent resistance and ensure effective treatment.

Ingredients

• Ethambutol 400mg

Drug Class

• Antituberculosis preparation (Antimycobacterial)

Dosage Form

• Tablet

Pack Size

• 10×10 tablets (10 strips of 10 tablets each)

Primary Uses

• Treatment and prevention of tuberculosis (TB)

Indications

• Used in combination with other antituberculosis medicines for pulmonary and extra-pulmonary TB

• Prevents the spread and progression of tuberculosis infection

• Not effective against viral infections such as flu or common cold

Dosage & Administration

• Taken orally, usually once daily as part of a multi-drug regimen

• Dose depends on body weight, age, and kidney function

• Should be used only under medical supervision

• Complete the full prescribed course to prevent recurrence or drug resistance

Missed Dose:

• Take as soon as remembered. If it is close to the next scheduled dose, skip the missed one. Do not double doses.

Overdose:

• May cause visual disturbances, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, or abdominal discomfort. Seek immediate medical attention.

Side Effects

• Optic neuritis (eye problems related to dose and duration)

• Nausea, vomiting, abdominal discomfort

• Loss of appetite (anorexia)

• Fever

• Dizziness

• Gastrointestinal disturbances

• Increased uric acid levels (may trigger gout in some patients)

Precautions & Warnings

• Eye health: Eye examination should be done before and during treatment — ethambutol may cause vision changes

• Renal impairment: Dose adjustments are required in patients with kidney disease

• Children: Not recommended under 13 years of age

• Pregnancy: Limited safety data; use with caution

• Lactation: Effects in nursing mothers are not well studied; consult a doctor

• Use with caution if there is a history of gout or high uric acid levels

Contraindications

Do not use if:

• Allergic to ethambutol or related drugs

• Diagnosed with optic neuritis (inflammation of the optic nerve)

• Severe kidney impairment (without specialist supervision)

Storage

• Store at room temperature (18–25°C)

• Protect from excessive light and moisture

• Keep out of reach of children

• Do not flush expired tablets; dispose of safely as per pharmacist’s instructions

Quick Tips

• Always take with other prescribed TB medicines — never alone

• Do not stop treatment early, even if symptoms improve

• Report any changes in vision (blurred sight, color vision issues) immediately

• Take at the same time daily to maintain consistent levels in the body

• Avoid alcohol — it may increase the risk of side effects

Doctor’s Review

Dr. Khalid Mehmood – Consultant Pulmonologist
“Ethambutol (Schazobutol) is an established component of standard tuberculosis treatment. Its role is crucial in preventing resistance and supporting the effectiveness of other TB medicines. While it is effective, careful monitoring of vision and kidney function is important during therapy. As with all anti-TB drugs, adherence to the full treatment plan is vital for success.”

Disclaimer

This profile is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified doctor before starting, changing, or stopping tuberculosis treatment.