anibutol 1000mg tablet - Ethambutol (1000mg) medicine

Ethambutol 1000mg Tablet: Complete Guide to Uses, Side Effects, and Safety

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🏭 Anikem Laboratories 📦 Varies by brand 💊 Allopathy 📅 Updated: Oct 17, 2026
⚠️ Hepatotoxicity Risk ⚠️ Nephrotoxicity Risk 📋 Prescription Required 💊 Generic Available
Medically Reviewed
12 min read
Evidence: High
Reviewed by
SaathiMed Expert Panel | Oct 17, 2026
🩺
Medically Fact-Checked & Clinically Verified by SaathiMed Clinical Review Board
Clinical Reference Standards: CDSCO (Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation), Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP) & WHO | Last Updated: September 2026

When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY

  • Blurred vision or decreased colour vision
  • Sudden vision loss
  • Numbness, tingling, or burning in hands or feet
  • Severe skin rash, itching, or swelling of face, lips, or throat
  • Yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine, or severe abdominal pain
  • Unusual bleeding or bruising
  • Confusion or disorientation

If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.

What is anibutol 1000mg tablet used for?

Ethambutol 1000mg tablet is an antitubercular medicine used in combination with other drugs to treat tuberculosis. It works by stopping the growth of TB bacteria. It is always used as part of a multi-drug regimen and requires regular eye check-ups.

  • Generic Name: Ethambutol
  • Manufacturer: Anikem Laboratories
  • Form: Allopathy
  • Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
  • Prescription Required: Yes

🇮🇳 anibutol 1000mg tablet के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

उपयोग: यह दवा इथाम्बुटोल (1000 मिलीग्राम) युक्त एक एंटी-टीबी दवा है, जिसका उपयोग तपेदिक (टीबी) के इलाज के लिए अन्य दवाओं के साथ किया जाता है। यह अकेले नहीं ली जाती क्योंकि इससे बैक्टीरिया में प्रतिरोध विकसित हो सकता है। यह फेफड़ों की टीबी और शरीर के अन्य अंगों की टीबी में प्रभावी है।

साइड इफेक्ट्स: इस दवा के सामान्य दुष्प्रभावों में मतली, उल्टी, पेट दर्द, भूख न लगना, सिरदर्द, चक्कर आना और जोड़ों में दर्द शामिल हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभावों में आंखों की नस में सूजन (ऑप्टिक न्यूराइटिस) हो सकती है, जिससे दृष्टि धुंधली हो सकती है या रंग देखने में कठिनाई हो सकती है। हाथ-पैरों में झुनझुनी या सुन्नपन भी हो सकता है। कोई भी असामान्य लक्षण दिखने पर तुरंत डॉक्टर से संपर्क करें।

सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को लेने से पहले अपने डॉक्टर को अपनी आंखों, गुर्दे, यकृत की समस्याओं और गर्भावस्था के बारे में बताएं। इलाज के दौरान नियमित रूप से आंखों की जांच कराएं। शराब न पिएं। डॉक्टर की सलाह के बिना दवा बंद न करें। दवा को कमरे के तापमान पर सूखी जगह पर रखें।

💡 Did You Know? The first generic medicine was introduced in India in 1970 after the Patents Act was amended.

💊 anibutol 1000mg tablet Uses & Benefits

[{"condition":"Pulmonary tuberculosis","description":"Used in combination with other antitubercular drugs for the treatment of active pulmonary TB.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Extrapulmonary tuberculosis","description":"Effective in TB affecting lymph nodes, bones, joints, urinary tract, and other organs.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Tuberculous meningitis","description":"Part of combination therapy for TB of the meninges, often at higher doses under specialist care.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC) infection","description":"Sometimes used in combination regimens for MAC in immunocompromised patients.","evidence":"Moderate"}]

Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Mycobacterium kansasii infection","description":"May be used as part of combination therapy for this atypical mycobacterial infection.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Primary treatment for: Tuberculosis

Also treats: Mycobacterium avium complex infection, Mycobacterium kansasii infection

📋 Drug Information

Generic Name(s)Ethambutol
Brand NameActol 800mg Tablet
ManufacturerAnikem Laboratories
Packaging / FormVaries by brand (Allopathy)
Therapeutic ClassANTI INFECTIVES
Action ClassMycobacterial cell wall inhibitors-Ethambutol
Route of AdministrationOral
StorageStore at room temperature between 15°C and 30°C (59°F to 86°F). Protect from moisture and light. Keep in the original container.
Shelf Life24 months from the date of manufacture.
WHO GuidelineThe World Health Organization (WHO) recommends ethambutol as part of first-line antitubercular therapy for drug-susceptible TB. It is included in the standard regimen of isoniazid, rifampicin, pyrazinamide, and ethambutol for the intensive phase.
ICMR GuidelineThe Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) also recommends ethambutol as a first-line antitubercular drug in combination regimens for TB, following national guidelines.

👨‍⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips

Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians

1
Always perform a baseline eye examination and ask about colour vision before starting this medicine.
2
Instruct patients to report any changes in vision immediately, as early detection of optic neuritis is crucial.
3
Adjust the dose in patients with renal impairment based on creatinine clearance.
4
Monitor for peripheral neuropathy, especially in patients with diabetes or malnutrition; consider pyridoxine supplementation.
5
Emphasize the importance of completing the full course of therapy and never stopping early.
6
Warn patients to avoid alcohol to reduce the risk of liver toxicity.
7
Use this medicine only in combination with other antitubercular drugs to prevent resistance.

🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?

Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.

✅
Persistent cough for more than 2 weeks
This medicine is commonly prescribed for tuberculosis, which can cause chronic cough.
Likely Use
✅
Fever with night sweats
This medicine is used in TB, which often presents with fever and night sweats.
Likely Use
❌
Common cold
This medicine is not effective for viral infections like the common cold.
Not Primary

🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)

Pharmacokinetics

AbsorptionEthambutol is well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract after oral administration. About 75-80% of an oral dose is absorbed.
DistributionEthambutol distributes widely into body tissues and fluids, including lungs, kidneys, and erythrocytes. It crosses the placenta and is found in breast milk. It also penetrates the cerebrospinal fluid when the meninges are inflamed.
Protein BindingLess than 5% of ethambutol is bound to plasma proteins.
MetabolismEthambutol is minimally metabolized in the liver. About 20% of an absorbed dose undergoes hepatic metabolism to inactive metabolites.
Half-LifeThe elimination half-life is approximately 3-4 hours in patients with normal renal function, but it can be prolonged in renal impairment.
ExcretionEthambutol is primarily excreted unchanged in the urine by glomerular filtration and tubular secretion. About 50% of an oral dose is excreted unchanged in urine within 24 hours, and up to 80% within 72 hours. A small amount is excreted in faeces.
BioavailabilityThe oral bioavailability of ethambutol is approximately 75-80%.
Onset of ActionThe onset of antibacterial action is not immediate; it begins within hours of reaching therapeutic blood levels, but clinical improvement in TB takes weeks.
Peak Plasma TimePeak plasma concentrations are reached 2-4 hours after oral administration.
Duration of ActionThe antibacterial effect persists as long as therapeutic drug levels are maintained; with once-daily dosing, the effect lasts for about 24 hours.

How It Works

Ethambutol inhibits the enzyme arabinosyl transferase, which is responsible for polymerizing arabinose into arabinogalactan, a key component of the mycobacterial cell wall. By blocking this step, the cell wall becomes defective, leading to increased permeability and death of the bacteria. It is bacteriostatic at usual doses but can be bactericidal at higher concentrations.

Mechanism Steps

1
Uptake into mycobacteria: Ethambutol enters the bacterial cell and accumulates in the cytoplasm.
2
Inhibition of arabinosyl transferase: It binds to and inhibits the EmbB protein, blocking the transfer of arabinose into the cell wall polymer.
3
Defective cell wall synthesis: Without proper arabinogalactan, the cell wall cannot form correctly, leading to increased permeability.
4
Bacterial growth arrest: The defective cell wall prevents bacterial multiplication and eventually leads to cell death, especially when combined with other antitubercular drugs.

💡 How to Take anibutol 1000mg tablet

Strength: Ethambutol 1000mg immediate-release tablet

1Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
2Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water.
3You may take it with or without food, but if it upsets your stomach, take it with a meal.
4Take it at the same time each day to maintain consistent blood levels.
5Do not crush, chew, or break the tablet unless your doctor advises.
6Do not stop taking this medicine without consulting your doctor, even if you feel better.

Dosage Information

Adult DosageThe usual adult dose of this medicine is 15-25 mg per kg of body weight taken once daily, but the exact dose depends on the indication, other medicines in the regimen, and your kidney function. For tuberculosis, it is typically given as part of a combination regimen for several months. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function.
Pediatric DosagePediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician.
Elderly DosageElderly patients may have reduced renal function and are at higher risk of side effects. Dose adjustment may be necessary based on kidney function. Regular monitoring of vision and renal function is recommended.
Renal ImpairmentIn patients with renal impairment, the dose of ethambutol should be reduced. For creatinine clearance 10-50 mL/min, the usual dose is 15-25 mg/kg given every 24-36 hours. For creatinine clearance less than 10 mL/min, the dose is 15-25 mg/kg every 48 hours. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on renal function.
Hepatic ImpairmentNo specific dose adjustment is required for hepatic impairment, but caution is advised and liver function should be monitored if used with other hepatotoxic drugs.
Maximum Daily DoseThe maximum recommended daily dose is 25 mg/kg for adults and children. Doses above this increase the risk of optic neuritis.

Dosage Timeline

🌅 Morning ❌ ☀️ Afternoon ❌ 🌆 Evening ❌ 🌙 Night ❌

🍽️ Food Timing Guide

With food
May take with or without food
Food does not affect absorption but can reduce stomach upset.
Antacids
Avoid taking together
Aluminium-containing antacids reduce absorption of this medicine.

⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose

📌 Less than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Take the missed dose as soon as you remember.
💡 Continue with the regular schedule.
📌 More than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Skip the missed dose.
💡 Do not double dose to catch up.

⚠️ Side Effects of anibutol 1000mg tablet

✅ Common Side Effects

Nausea (Common (5-10%))
Take with food to reduce nausea. If it persists, consult your doctor.
Vomiting (Common (5-10%))
Stay hydrated and take with meals. Contact doctor if severe.
Stomach pain (Common (5-10%))
Take with food. If pain is severe or persistent, seek medical advice.
Loss of appetite (Common (5-10%))
Eat small frequent meals. Consult doctor if weight loss occurs.
Headache (Common (5-10%))
Rest and stay hydrated. If headache is severe, consult doctor.
Dizziness (Common (5-10%))
Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how it affects you.
Joint pain (Common (5-10%))
Use over-the-counter pain relief if approved by your doctor. Report persistent pain.

🚨 Serious Side Effects

Optic neuritis (inflammation of the optic nerve) (Uncommon (1-2%))
Seek immediate medical attention if you notice blurred vision, decreased colour vision, or vision loss. Early detection is crucial to prevent permanent damage.
Peripheral neuropathy (Uncommon (1-2%))
Report numbness, tingling, or burning in hands or feet to your doctor. Dose adjustment or additional treatment may be needed.
Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek emergency help if you experience rash, itching, swelling of face, lips, or throat, difficulty breathing, or dizziness.
Hepatotoxicity (liver damage) (Rare (<0.1%))
Report yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine, or severe abdominal pain immediately.
Thrombocytopenia (low platelet count) (Rare (<0.1%))
Watch for unusual bleeding or bruising. Seek medical attention if these occur.

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

Hyperuricemia (high uric acid)
May cause gout-like symptoms. Report joint pain or swelling to your doctor.
Confusion or disorientation
Seek medical advice if you experience confusion, especially in elderly patients.
Pulmonary infiltrates with eosinophilia
Report new or worsening cough, fever, or difficulty breathing.

Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.

🔬 Drug Interactions

Drug Severity Effect
Aluminium hydroxide Major
Isoniazid Moderate
Rifampicin Moderate
Pyrazinamide Minor

🚨 Major Interactions

  • Aluminium hydroxide (antacids)

⚡ Moderate Interactions

  • Isoniazid
  • Rifampicin

🍷 Alcohol Interaction

Alcohol should be avoided while taking this medicine because it can increase the risk of liver damage and may worsen side effects such as dizziness and nausea.

🔎 Check Your Other Medicines

Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.

🛡️ Safety & Warnings

🚫 Contraindications

["Known hypersensitivity to ethambutol","Pre-existing optic neuritis","Inability to report visual symptoms (e.g., young children, unconscious patients) unless close monitoring is available","Severe renal impairment without dose adjustment"]

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

["Optic neuritis: Perform baseline and periodic eye examinations. Discontinue if vision changes occur.","Renal impairment: Dose reduction is required. Monitor renal function.","Peripheral neuropathy: May occur, especially in malnourished patients or those with diabetes. Pyridoxine may be prescribed.","Use in children: Safety and effectiveness in children under 13 years have not been established for some indications; use with caution.","Drug resistance: Never use as monotherapy for TB. Always combine with other antitubercular drugs.","Pregnancy: Use only if clearly needed; consult doctor.","Breastfeeding: Excreted in breast milk; consult doctor."]

🤱 Lactation Safety

Ethambutol is excreted in breast milk in small amounts. It is generally considered safe during breastfeeding, but consult your doctor to weigh the benefits and risks.

💊 Overdose Management

Overdose of ethambutol can cause nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and visual disturbances. There is no specific antidote. Treatment is supportive and symptomatic. Immediate medical attention is required. Gastric lavage may be considered if ingestion is recent. Monitor vital signs and vision closely.

⏰ Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Additional Safety Advice

General Safety

Before starting this medicine, tell your doctor if you have any eye problems, kidney disease, liver disease, or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. You must have a baseline eye examination and regular vision checks while on this medicine. Avoid alcohol because it can increase the risk of liver problems. Do not take this medicine without other TB medicines; using it alone can lead to drug-resistant TB. Take the tablet at the same time each day with or without food, but if it upsets your stomach, take it with a meal. Do not stop taking this medicine even if you feel better, as stopping early can cause the infection to return and become harder to treat. Keep all follow-up appointments and lab tests. Store this medicine at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep out of reach of children.

👴 Special Considerations for Elderly

💡 For Patients Above 65

Elderly patients are more likely to have reduced renal function and are at higher risk of optic neuritis and peripheral neuropathy. Dose adjustment based on renal function is often necessary. Regular monitoring of vision and renal function is recommended.

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

If you are planning to become pregnant, discuss with your doctor. Ethambutol is considered safe in pregnancy when used for TB. Effective treatment of TB is important for both mother and baby. Do not stop the medicine without medical advice.

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

If you are undergoing surgery, inform your surgeon and anesthesiologist that you are taking this medicine. It may interact with other medications used during surgery. Your doctor may adjust the dose or timing.

🦷 Dental Procedures

Inform your dentist that you are taking this medicine before any dental procedure. No specific precautions are usually needed, but your dentist may want to consult your doctor.

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏃
Maintain a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and protein to support recovery.
🥗
Get plenty of rest and avoid strenuous activities until you feel better.
😴
Practice good hygiene to prevent spreading TB to others.
💧
Take your medicines at the same time every day to avoid missing doses.
🧘
Keep all follow-up appointments with your doctor.
🌞
Avoid alcohol and smoking to reduce liver stress and improve lung health.

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

While taking this medicine, you may feel tired or dizzy. Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous exercise until you know how the medicine affects you. Light activities like walking are generally safe. Consult your doctor before starting any exercise program.

🥗 Diet Recommendations

Eat a balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables.
Include protein-rich foods like eggs, lean meat, and legumes.
Stay well hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
Avoid alcohol and limit caffeine intake.
Take the medicine with food if it upsets your stomach.

💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life

This medicine may cause dizziness or vision changes, which can affect your ability to drive or operate machinery. Avoid these activities until you know how the medicine affects you. You may need to take time off work during the initial phase of treatment, especially if you have active TB and are contagious. Consult your doctor about when it is safe to return to work.

🛑 When to Stop This Medicine

Do not stop taking this medicine without consulting your doctor. If you experience serious side effects such as vision changes, severe allergic reactions, or signs of liver damage, contact your doctor immediately. They will decide whether to adjust the dose or switch to an alternative medicine.

📅 Long-Term Use Effects

Long-term use of this medicine is generally well tolerated when monitored appropriately. The main concern is optic neuritis, which can be reversible if detected early. Regular eye examinations are essential. Peripheral neuropathy may also occur with prolonged use. Renal function should be monitored, especially in patients with kidney disease. Completing the full course is crucial to prevent relapse and resistance.

🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches

These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.

Directly Observed Therapy (DOT)

A healthcare worker observes the patient taking each dose to ensure adherence.

Evidence: Well-established
Nutritional support

Adequate nutrition helps improve outcomes in TB patients.

Evidence: Well-established

💉 Vaccination Considerations

💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated

There are no specific vaccine interactions with this medicine. However, live vaccines should be avoided in immunocompromised patients. Consult your doctor before receiving any vaccine while on this medicine.

📦 Storage Guide

✅ DO

Store at room temperature (15-30°C)

❌ DON'T

Do not refrigerate unless specified

✅ DO

Keep in original container

❌ DON'T

Do not transfer to unmarked containers

✅ DO

Keep away from direct sunlight

❌ DON'T

Do not store in bathroom cabinet

✈️ Traveling with This Medicine

When travelling, carry this medicine in its original packaging along with a copy of your prescription. Keep it in your hand luggage to avoid loss or temperature extremes. Store at room temperature and protect from moisture. If crossing time zones, continue taking your doses at the same interval as prescribed; consult your doctor for specific advice. Check customs regulations for carrying prescription medicines.

💰 Cost Analysis & Savings

👥 Real Patient Stories

Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.

👤 A 35-year-old man diagnosed with pulmonary tuberculosis
He was started on a combination regimen including this medicine. After two months, he noticed his vision becoming slightly blurry. He reported this to his doctor immediately. An eye examination confirmed early optic neuritis. The medicine was stopped, and his vision gradually returned to normal. He completed his TB treatment with an alternative regimen.
💡 Lesson: Regular eye check-ups and prompt reporting of vision changes can prevent permanent damage.
👤 A 50-year-old woman with diabetes and TB
She was prescribed this medicine along with other antitubercular drugs. She developed tingling and numbness in her feet after a few weeks. Her doctor recognized this as peripheral neuropathy and prescribed pyridoxine. Her symptoms improved, and she was able to continue her TB treatment successfully.
💡 Lesson: Peripheral neuropathy is a known side effect, especially in patients with diabetes. Early recognition and treatment can help continue therapy.

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

Q: How long does it take to work?

A: This medicine starts working within hours, but you may not notice improvement in TB symptoms for a few weeks. It is important to complete the full course.

Q: Can I stop taking this medicine if I feel better?

A: No, you must complete the full course as prescribed. Stopping early can lead to relapse and drug-resistant TB.

Q: What should I do if I miss a dose?

A: Take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double dose.

Q: Are there any food restrictions?

A: You can take this medicine with or without food. However, avoid taking it with aluminium-containing antacids as they reduce absorption.

Q: Can I take this medicine during pregnancy?

A: Ethambutol is considered safe in pregnancy when prescribed for TB. Consult your doctor to weigh the benefits and risks.

🤔 Common Patient Concerns

💭 These are the concerns patients most commonly raise

  • Can I take this medicine long-term?
  • Will it affect my vision?
  • Can I drive after taking this medicine?
  • Does it interact with my diabetes medicine?
  • What if I miss a dose?
  • Can I drink alcohol while taking this?

🔄 Substitutes for anibutol 1000mg tablet

View All

Alternative brands with exact same active ingredient:

Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.

🛑 Myths vs. Facts

  • Myth: Ethambutol can be taken alone to treat TB.
    Fact: Ethambutol must always be combined with other antitubercular drugs to prevent resistance.
  • Myth: Ethambutol causes permanent blindness in everyone.
    Fact: Optic neuritis is uncommon and usually reversible if detected early. Regular eye check-ups are essential.
  • Myth: You can stop taking ethambutol once you feel better.
    Fact: You must complete the full course as prescribed to cure TB and prevent relapse.

🔄 Alternative Options

Generic Alternatives

  • Ethambutol 1000mg tablet (generic)

Brand Alternatives

  • Combutol 1000 tablet

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

[{"medicine":"Ethambutol","class":"Antitubercular","main_use":"Tuberculosis","route":"Oral","key_side_effect":"Optic neuritis"},{"medicine":"Isoniazid","class":"Antitubercular","main_use":"Tuberculosis","route":"Oral","key_side_effect":"Peripheral neuropathy"},{"medicine":"Rifampicin","class":"Antitubercular","main_use":"Tuberculosis","route":"Oral","key_side_effect":"Orange discolouration of body fluids"}]

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