Isoniazid , alone or with other drugs, is used to treat tuberculosis or prevent it in those who came into contact with the bacterium.
What is isoniazid?
Isoniazid works by eliminating tuberculosis bacteria that are duplicating in the body.
How is Isoniazid taken?
Isoniazid can be taken in the form of tablets (including prolonged-release), capsules or syrup . Typically, one dose per day should be taken on an empty stomach (1 hour before or 2 hours after meals). In case of stomach ailments it can be taken with a little food.
Since tuberculosis bacteria can temporarily remain inactive without replicating, Isoniazid therapy should be taken for long periods (typically 6 to 12 months).
Side effects of Isoniazid
Isoniazid can cause severe liver damage which in some cases can be fatal: it is important to inform your doctor if you suffer (or have suffered) from liver disease, alcoholism, drug use or the appearance of symptoms such as excessive tiredness, weakness , lack of energy, loss of appetite, stomach upset, vomiting, dark urine and yellowish discoloration of the skin.
Other possible side effects of isoniazid include:
- diarrhea
- visual disturbances
It is good to contact your doctor immediately in case of:
- eye pain
- numbness or tingling in hands and feet
- rash
- temperature
- swollen glands
- sore throat
- bleeding or bruising
- pain in the abdomen or sensitivity to touch
Warnings on the use of Isoniazid
During treatment with Isoniazid you should not take alcohol .
Before starting to take the drug it is also good to inform your doctor:
- of any allergies to the active substance, to its excipients or to any other drug or food
- the medicines, phytotherapy and supplements taken, in particular Paracetamol, antacids, Carbamazepine, Disulfiram, Ketoconazole, Phenytoin, Theophylline, Valproic Acid and vitamins;
- if you suffer (or have suffered) from kidney disease, diabetes and peripheral neuropathies ;
- if you have an HIV infection ;
- if you are pregnant or breastfeeding .
