Ethambutol Hydrochloride Latest News
India recently launched an anti-dumping investigation on imports of tuberculosis drug Ethambutol Hydrochloride from China and Thailand.
About Ethambutol Hydrochloride
- It is an antibacterial prescription medicine used for the treatment of tuberculosis (TB).
- It is a synthetic, water soluble, heat stable compound.Â
- It is specifically effective against actively growing microorganisms of the genus Mycobacterium including M. tuberculosis.Â
- It is used to combat both pulmonary and extrapulmonary tuberculosis.Â
- Mechanism:
- Ethambutol (HCl) specifically targets the synthesis of the cell wall in M. tuberculosis.Â
- By interfering with the polymerization of arabinogalactan, a key component of the mycobacterial cell wall, Ethambutol disrupts the structural integrity of the bacteria, leading to its demise.
- Its unique mode of action is fundamental in combination therapies, where it is often used in conjunction with other anti-tubercular drugs to prevent resistance and enhance efficacy.
- Resistance to ethambutol emerges rapidly when the drug is used alone. Therefore ethambutol is always given in combination with other antituberculosis drugs.
Source: TH
Ethambutol Hydrochloride FAQs
Q1: What is ethambutol hydrochloride used for?
Ans: It is an antibacterial prescription medicine used for the treatment of tuberculosis (TB).
Q2: What is the most common side effect of ethambutol?
Ans: Common side effects include vision changes, joint pain, nausea, and vomiting.
Q3: Why is Ethambutol Hydrochloride always given in combination with other antituberculosis drugs?
Ans: To prevent rapid emergence of resistance.
