Indications  

Pyrazinamide is a prescribed medication used in combination with other ant tuberculous drugs for the initial treatment of active tuberculosis (TB) in adults and children. 

Classified as an antibiotic, pyrazinamide works by inhibiting the growth of TB-causing bacteria.  

Uses and Dosage 

Before taking pyrazinamide and with each prescription refill, carefully review its medication guide and patient information leaflet. For questions or uncertainties, seek guidance from your doctor or pharmacist. 

Pyrazinamide dosage may vary per individual based on age, weight, medical condition, and response to the treatment.  

Pyrazinamide may be taken either once daily or in larger doses twice weekly as prescribed by the doctor, without regard to food intake. 

To achieve optimal results, take this antibiotic at evenly spaced times. For the daily regimen, take it at the same time each day. For a weekly schedule, take it on the same days of the week and at the same time each day.  

Complete the full prescribed course of pyrazinamide (along with other TB medications) even if symptoms improve. Prematurely stopping or missing doses may enable bacterial growth, leading to a relapse of the infection and making it harder to treat. 

Side Effects 

Listed below are the potential adverse effects of pyrazinamide. If any of them persist or worsen, promptly notify your doctor. 

Common Side Effects 

• Joint or muscle pain 
• Nausea 
• Vomiting 
• Loss of appetite 

Serious Side Effects 

• Fever 
• Joint pain or swelling 
• Easy bruising or bleeding (nosebleeds, bleeding gums) 
• Gout flare-up symptoms: 
  • Joint pain 
  • Stiffness 
  • Redness 
  • Swelling (especially at night) 
• Signs of liver problems: 
  • Nausea 
  • Upper stomach pain 
  • Itching 
  • Tiredness 
  • Loss of appetite 
  • Dark urine 
  • Clay-colored stools 
  • Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes) 

Call your doctor immediately if you experience any of the serious side effects mentioned above. 

Allergic Reactions 

Although rare, a severe allergic reaction to pyrazinamide may occur. Seek prompt medical attention if you experience indications of an allergic reaction, such as: 

• Rash 
• Face, tongue, or throat itching or swelling  
• Severe dizziness 
• Trouble breathing 

Not all side effects of pyrazinamide are included in this list. Inform your doctor promptly if any unlisted effects are observed. 

Cautions 

Before starting treatment with pyrazinamide, inform your doctor if you have any known allergies, particularly to pyrazinamide and other medications. 

Ask your pharmacist for further information, as pyrazinamide may contain inactive components that may cause allergic reactions or other complications. 

To ensure pyrazinamide is safe for you, disclose to your physician your medical background, especially if you have a history of: 

• Liver disease 
• Kidney disease 
• Diabetes 
• Gout 
• Elevated uric acid level in the blood 
• Alcohol use 

Ensure all your healthcare providers are informed of any current, newly started, or stopped medications, including prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements, to lower the risk of drug interaction with pyrazinamide. 

Notify all laboratory personnel and doctors about your use of pyrazinamide, as it can potentially disrupt specific laboratory tests (such as urine ketone tests), leading to inaccurate results. 

Inform your healthcare provider about your use of pyrazinamide before receiving any immunizations, as it may affect the effectiveness of live bacterial vaccines like the typhoid vaccine. 

Pyrazinamide may make your skin sensitive to sunlight. Minimize unnecessary or prolonged exposure to the sun and ensure you wear protective clothing, sunglasses, and sunscreen. 

The potential impact of pyrazinamide on an unborn baby remains uncertain. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to conceive while taking pyrazinamide. 

Pyrazinamide has the potential to pass into breast milk and may pose risks to a nursing baby. Inform your doctor if you are currently breastfeeding.