Myambutol
Myambutol is an oral chemotherapeutic agent specifically active against mycobacteria, including Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It works by obstructing cell wall synthesis in actively growing bacteria, leading to cell death. Because resistance can develop quickly when used alone, Myambutol must always be administered in conjunction with other effective antituberculosis medications.
Dosage by Body Weight
Standard adult dosage is 15 mg/kg to 25 mg/kg of body weight administered orally once every 24 hours. The dosage is determined by whether it is the initial therapy or retreatment, and must be adjusted precisely to body weight. Visual acuity testing is recommended before starting and during treatment due to the risk of optic neuritis.
- Body Weight
- Below 5 kg
- Dose
- Not routine
- Frequency
- Use only if prescribed
- Tracking Notes
- Not recommended for routine pediatric use in infants whose visual acuity cannot be reliably monitored unless benefits outweigh potential risks.
- Body Weight
- 5-7 kg
- Dose
- 75 mg to 100 mg
- Frequency
- Once daily
- Tracking Notes
- Calculated based on approximately 15 mg/kg. Requires strict specialist supervision and monitoring.
- Body Weight
- 8-10 kg
- Dose
- 120 mg to 150 mg
- Frequency
- Once daily
- Tracking Notes
- Calculated based on approximately 15 mg/kg. Ensure pediatric patient can be monitored for changes in vision.
- Body Weight
- 11-15 kg
- Dose
- 165 mg to 225 mg
- Frequency
- Once daily
- Tracking Notes
- Calculated based on approximately 15 mg/kg. Dose may be adjusted upward to 25 mg/kg under clinical recommendation for retreatment.
- Body Weight
- 16-20 kg
- Dose
- 240 mg to 300 mg
- Frequency
- Once daily
- Tracking Notes
- Calculated based on approximately 15 mg/kg. Regular monthly ophthalmic check-ups are advised during prolonged therapy.
| Body Weight | Dose | Frequency | Tracking Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Below 5 kg | Not routine | Use only if prescribed | Not recommended for routine pediatric use in infants whose visual acuity cannot be reliably monitored unless benefits outweigh potential risks. |
| 5-7 kg | 75 mg to 100 mg | Once daily | Calculated based on approximately 15 mg/kg. Requires strict specialist supervision and monitoring. |
| 8-10 kg | 120 mg to 150 mg | Once daily | Calculated based on approximately 15 mg/kg. Ensure pediatric patient can be monitored for changes in vision. |
| 11-15 kg | 165 mg to 225 mg | Once daily | Calculated based on approximately 15 mg/kg. Dose may be adjusted upward to 25 mg/kg under clinical recommendation for retreatment. |
| 16-20 kg | 240 mg to 300 mg | Once daily | Calculated based on approximately 15 mg/kg. Regular monthly ophthalmic check-ups are advised during prolonged therapy. |
Formulation
Purpose
Used in the treatment of pulmonary tuberculosis (TB) in combination with other antituberculosis drugs to prevent the development of drug-resistant bacteria.
Generic Name
Ethambutol HydrochlorideScheduled Drug
Yes. This medicine should be supplied or used only according to applicable prescription and regulatory requirements.