Etibi Description

Etibi or generic Ethambutol is one of the antimycobacterial antibiotics a doctor may prescribe if you have tested positive for Tuberculosis, commonly referred to as TB. The idea of taking a combination of drugs is that one drug can enhance the effects of the other, and it decreases the risk of the bacteria becoming resistant and continuing to grow and reproduce. The generic alternative is not manufactured by the company that makes the brand product.

The bacterium that is to blame for TB has existed for thousands of years when TB was once called consumption. The very young and the elderly are at a higher risk for this disease to develop due to a weakened immune system, while others may not even be aware of having the bacteria because their immune system has destroyed the pathogen before it had a chance to multiply.

How Etibi Works as Part of Your TB Treatment

When taken as directed, Etibi locates and enters the growing bacteria and interferes with an essential enzyme called arabinosyl transferase. This enzyme is involved with an important component of the mycobacterial cell wall. The result of this interference means that the formation of the outer covering of their cell wall is stopped so the mycobacteria have no protection and are unable to grow. Your own immune system will help to eliminate any remaining mycobacteria as Etibi and the accompanying medication stop their growth.

More Information About Tuberculosis

Tuberculosis is transmitted through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, laughs, or talks. The bacteria are inhaled into your lungs where they attach to the interior lining and remain dormant until your immune system is unable to fight. Not all people who are exposed to TB will actually become infected, such as healthy individuals with strong immune systems.

The young and the elderly are more susceptible to active TB because of their underdeveloped or weakened immune system, as are individuals with compromised immune systems due to human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Treatments for TB can last for 6 to 12 months and taking your medication as directed is vital because the mycobacteria can revive or mutate and start the infection again unless the drugs are taken regularly.

Before Etibi is Prescribed to You

Tell the doctor if you are pregnant, may become pregnant, or are breast feeding before taking Etibi as it may be harmful to your unborn, newborn, or nursing baby. Discuss other medical conditions or allergies you have with your doctor and list any over the counter and prescription medications you currently take or use, including herbal remedies and dietary or vitamin supplements as it must be determined if it is safe for you to buy Etibi and begin treatment.

Etibi Precautions

Until it is known how your body is going to react to Etibi, do not drive, operate machinery, or perform any tasks that are considered unsafe. If vision decreases or changes in any way, see a doctor right away as a dosage change may be required. Once Etibi is stopped, your vision should be restored. It’s important that all doctor and lab appointments are attended so your condition can be monitored.

Possible Side Effects of Etibi

• Dizziness
• Headache
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea

Drugs Similar to Etibi

• Mycobutin
• Rifadin
• Tebrazid