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What is the most important information I should know about ethionamide?

Take all of the ethionamide that has been prescribed for you even if you begin to feel better. Your symptoms may begin to improve before the infection is completely treated.

Ethionamide may cause stomach upset, a loss of appetite, a metallic taste in your mouth, or excessive salivation (mouth watering). Notify your doctor if these side effects are persistent or severe.

What is ethionamide?

Ethionamide is an antibiotic. It prevents the growth of bacteria in your body.

Ethionamide is used to treat tuberculosis (TB).

Ethionamide may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

Who should not take ethionamide?

Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you

• have ever had an allergic reaction to ethionamide;

• have liver disease; or

• have diabetes mellitus.

You may not be able to take ethionamide, or you may require a lower dose or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.

It is not known whether ethionamide will harm an unborn baby. Do not take this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant. It is also not known whether ethionamide will harm a nursing baby. Do not take this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I take ethionamide?

Take ethionamide exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these instructions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.

Take each dose with a full glass (8 ounces) of water.

Ethionamide can be taken with or without food. Taking ethionamide with food may decrease stomach upset.

Take all of the ethionamide that has been prescribed for you even if you begin to feel better. Your symptoms may begin to improve before the infection is completely treated.

Ethionamide is usually combined with one or more other tuberculosis medicines.

Store this medication at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next regularly scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and take the next one as directed. Do not take a double dose of this medication.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention.

Symptoms of an ethionamide overdose are unknown.

What should I avoid while taking ethionamide?

There are no restrictions on foods, beverages, or activities during treatment with ethionamide unless your doctor directs otherwise.

What are the possible side effects of ethionamide?

If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking ethionamide and seek emergency medical attention:

• an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives);

• yellow skin or eyes;

• dark urine;

• numbness or tingling in your hands or feet;

• seizures;

• blurred or double vision; or

• confusion or abnormal behavior.

Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take ethionamide and talk to your doctor if you experience

• nausea, vomiting, or loss of appetite;

• a metallic taste in your mouth;

• excessive salivation;

• diarrhea;

• unusual fatigue or weakness;

• headache;

• mild dizziness;

• tremors (shaking); or

• a rash.

Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.