Formulary Monographs [ETHAMBUTOL, 081604]

ETHAMBUTOL
ANTITUBERCULOSIS AGENTS
Tuberculosis, in combination with other drugs.
Optic neuritis. Use with caution in renal disease, and in the elderly . Avoid in children under 6 years. Visual acuity and red-green colour discrimination occurs at doses of 25mg/kg. May cause G.I. upset.
Adult: 15 mg/kg/day as a single dose, alternatively, three times weekly (25 to 30 mg/kg/dose) or twice weekly (50 mg/kg/dose) dosing has been given; patients with renal insufficiency require dosage adjustment. Pediatric: 15-20mg/kg/day.Take with food.
The manufacturer states that ethambutol should be used during pregnancy only when the potential benefits justify the possible risks to the fetus.