Ethambutol
Ethambutol
Ethambutol (/ɛθˈæmbjuːtɒl/ eth-AM-byoo-tol) is an antibiotic primarily used to treat tuberculosis. It is usually given in combination with other tuberculosis medications, such as isoniazid, rifampicin and pyrazinamide. It is taken by mouth.
Etymology
The term "Ethambutol" is derived from its chemical name, which is 2,2'-(ethylenediimino)di-1-butanol.
Medical Uses
Ethambutol is used in the first-line treatment of active tuberculosis. It is also used to treat Mycobacterium avium complex, a type of lung infection that often affects people with HIV/AIDS.
Side Effects
Common side effects include issues with vision, joint pain, and upset stomach. Serious side effects may include optic neuritis which can result in vision loss if not treated.
Mechanism of Action
Ethambutol works by inhibiting the synthesis of the cell wall of the Mycobacterium species. It interferes with the incorporation of mycolic acid into the mycobacterial cell wall, thus preventing the growth of the bacteria.
Related Terms
- Antibiotic
- Tuberculosis
- Isoniazid
- Rifampicin
- Pyrazinamide
- Mycobacterium avium complex
- HIV/AIDS
- Optic neuritis
- Mycobacterium
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Ethambutol
- Wikipedia's article - Ethambutol
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