isonex 100mg tablet - Isoniazid (100mg) medicine

Isoniazid 100 mg Tablet: Comprehensive Guide

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🏭 Pfizer Ltd 📦 Varies by brand 💊 Allopathy 📅 Updated: Sep 26, 2026
⚠️ Hepatotoxicity Risk ⚠️ Nephrotoxicity Risk 📋 Prescription Required 💊 Generic Available
Medically Reviewed
11 min read
Evidence: High
Reviewed by
SaathiMed Expert Panel | Sep 26, 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

  • Yellowing of skin or eyes (jaundice)
  • Dark urine or pale stools
  • Severe abdominal pain
  • Persistent nausea and vomiting
  • Seizures
  • Vision changes
  • Severe skin rash or allergic reaction
  • Unexplained fatigue or weakness

If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.

What is isonex 100mg tablet used for?

Isoniazid is an antibiotic used to treat and prevent tuberculosis. It works by killing the bacteria that cause TB. It is usually taken as part of a combination regimen.

  • Generic Name: Isoniazid (100mg)
  • Manufacturer: Pfizer Ltd
  • Form: Allopathy
  • Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
  • Prescription Required: Yes

🇮🇳 isonex 100mg tablet के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

उपयोग: यह दवा तपेदिक (टीबी) के इलाज और रोकथाम के लिए इस्तेमाल की जाती है। यह एक एंटीबायोटिक है जो टीबी पैदा करने वाले बैक्टीरिया को मारती है। यह अक्सर अन्य दवाओं के साथ मिलकर दी जाती है।

साइड इफेक्ट्स: आम दुष्प्रभावों में मतली, उल्टी, पेट दर्द, और भूख न लगना शामिल हैं। कुछ रोगियों को हाथ-पैरों में झुनझुनी या सुन्नपन महसूस हो सकता है। गंभीर दुष्प्रभावों में लिवर की समस्या, दौरे, और दृष्टि में बदलाव शामिल हैं। कोई भी असामान्य लक्षण दिखने पर तुरंत डॉक्टर से संपर्क करें।

सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को डॉक्टर के बताए अनुसार ही लें। उपचार पूरा होने से पहले दवा बंद न करें। शराब का सेवन न करें क्योंकि इससे लिवर को नुकसान हो सकता है। नियमित रूप से लिवर फंक्शन टेस्ट करवाएं। गर्भवती महिलाएं डॉक्टर से सलाह लें।

💡 Did You Know? The Indian pharmaceutical market is expected to reach $130 billion by 2030.

💊 isonex 100mg tablet Uses & Benefits

[{"condition":"Active Tuberculosis","description":"Used in combination with other antitubercular drugs (e.g., rifampicin, pyrazinamide, ethambutol) for the treatment of active TB.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Latent Tuberculosis Infection","description":"Used as a single agent to prevent progression to active TB in individuals with latent infection.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Tuberculosis Meningitis","description":"Part of combination therapy for TB meningitis, often with extended treatment duration.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Disseminated Tuberculosis","description":"Included in regimens for disseminated or miliary TB.","evidence":"Well-established"}]

Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Atypical Mycobacterial Infections","description":"Sometimes used off-label for certain nontuberculous mycobacterial infections, though not first-line.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Primary treatment for: Tuberculosis

Also treats: Latent Tuberculosis Infection, Tuberculous Meningitis, Disseminated Tuberculosis

📋 Drug Information

Generic Name(s)Isoniazid (100mg)
Brand Nameisonex 100mg tablet
ManufacturerPfizer Ltd
Packaging / FormVaries by brand (Allopathy)
Therapeutic ClassANTI INFECTIVES
Action ClassMycolic acid inhibitors- INH
Route of AdministrationOral
StorageStore at room temperature (15-30°C) in a dry place, away from direct sunlight. Keep in the original container.
Shelf Life24 months from the date of manufacture.
WHO GuidelineWHO recommends Isoniazid as part of first-line treatment for tuberculosis. For latent TB, Isoniazid preventive therapy is recommended for certain high-risk groups.
ICMR GuidelineICMR guidelines recommend Isoniazid as part of standard antitubercular therapy. Regular monitoring for hepatotoxicity is advised.

👨‍⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips

Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians

1
Take this medicine on an empty stomach for best absorption, but if it upsets your stomach, take it with food.
2
Do not skip doses or stop treatment early, even if you feel better, to prevent relapse and resistance.
3
Avoid alcohol completely while on this medicine to reduce the risk of liver damage.
4
Report any tingling or numbness in your hands or feet to your doctor; you may need vitamin B6 supplementation.
5
Get regular liver function tests as recommended by your doctor.
6
Inform your doctor if you are taking any other medications, especially phenytoin, carbamazepine, or warfarin.
7
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, but do not double the dose.

🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?

Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.

✅
Persistent cough
This medicine is commonly prescribed for tuberculosis which presents with chronic cough.
Likely Use
✅
Fever
Tuberculosis can cause fever, and this medicine treats the underlying infection.
Likely Use
❌
Headache
This medicine is not a primary headache reliever.
Not Primary

🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)

Pharmacokinetics

AbsorptionIsoniazid is rapidly and almost completely absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract after oral administration. Food may slightly reduce absorption, so it is often taken on an empty stomach.
DistributionIsoniazid distributes widely throughout the body, including into cerebrospinal fluid, pleural fluid, and caseous tuberculous lesions. It crosses the placenta and is excreted in breast milk.
Protein BindingIsoniazid is only about 10-15% bound to plasma proteins.
MetabolismIsoniazid is primarily metabolized in the liver by N-acetyltransferase 2 (NAT2) to acetylisoniazid, which is then hydrolyzed to isonicotinic acid and monoacetylhydrazine. The rate of acetylation is genetically determined, leading to fast and slow acetylator phenotypes.
Half-LifeThe elimination half-life of Isoniazid ranges from 1 to 4 hours, depending on the acetylator status. Fast acetylators have a half-life of about 1 hour, while slow acetylators have a half-life of about 3-4 hours.
ExcretionIsoniazid and its metabolites are excreted primarily in the urine. About 75-95% of a dose is excreted in urine within 24 hours, mostly as metabolites.
BioavailabilityThe oral bioavailability of Isoniazid is approximately 90% or higher.
Onset of ActionThe onset of action for antitubercular effect is not immediate; it takes several days to weeks to see clinical improvement.
Peak Plasma TimePeak plasma concentrations are achieved within 1-2 hours after oral administration on an empty stomach.
Duration of ActionThe duration of action is not clearly defined, but therapeutic effects require continuous administration as per the treatment regimen.

How It Works

Isoniazid is a prodrug that is activated by the bacterial catalase-peroxidase enzyme KatG. The activated form inhibits the enoyl-acyl carrier protein reductase (InhA), which is essential for the synthesis of mycolic acid, a key component of the mycobacterial cell wall. This leads to disruption of cell wall synthesis and bacterial death. Isoniazid is bactericidal against actively dividing Mycobacterium tuberculosis and is also active against dormant organisms.

Mechanism Steps

1
Prodrug Activation: Isoniazid enters the mycobacterial cell and is activated by the bacterial catalase-peroxidase enzyme KatG.
2
Inhibition of Mycolic Acid Synthesis: The activated form binds to and inhibits InhA, blocking the synthesis of mycolic acid, a critical component of the mycobacterial cell wall.
3
Cell Wall Disruption: Without mycolic acid, the cell wall becomes defective, leading to loss of cellular integrity and bacterial death.
4
Bactericidal Effect: The overall effect is bactericidal, killing both actively dividing and dormant Mycobacterium tuberculosis.

💡 How to Take isonex 100mg tablet

Strength: Dispersible tablet, 100 mg

1Disperse the tablet in a small amount of water before taking.
2Take on an empty stomach, at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals.
3If stomach upset occurs, take with food.
4Take at the same time each day.
5Do not crush or chew the tablet; disperse in water.

Dosage Information

Adult DosageThe usual adult dose for active tuberculosis is 5 mg/kg per day (up to 300 mg) in combination with other antitubercular drugs. For latent TB infection, the dose is 300 mg daily for 6-9 months, or as directed by the physician. 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 require dose adjustment based on renal and hepatic function. Monitor closely for side effects.
Renal ImpairmentDose adjustment may be needed in severe renal impairment. Consult a clinician.
Hepatic ImpairmentUse with caution in patients with hepatic impairment. Dose reduction may be necessary. Monitor liver function closely.
Maximum Daily Dose300 mg per day for adults.

Dosage Timeline

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

🍽️ Food Timing Guide

With food
Take with meals if stomach upset occurs
Reduces gastrointestinal discomfort.
Tyramine-rich foods
Avoid large amounts
May cause hypertensive crisis due to MAO inhibition.

⏰ 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 isonex 100mg tablet

✅ Common Side Effects

Nausea (Common (5-10%))
Take with food if stomach upset occurs. Consult doctor if persistent.
Vomiting (Common (5-10%))
Stay hydrated. If severe, contact doctor.
Abdominal pain (Common (5-10%))
Usually resolves. If severe, consult doctor.
Peripheral neuropathy (Common (10-20%))
Report to doctor. May need pyridoxine supplementation.
Dizziness (Uncommon (1-5%))
Avoid driving if affected. Consult if persists.

🚨 Serious Side Effects

Hepatotoxicity (Uncommon (1-2%))
Seek immediate medical attention if you notice yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine, or severe abdominal pain.
Seizures (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek emergency medical care immediately.
Optic neuritis (Rare (<0.1%))
Report any vision changes immediately.
Severe allergic reactions (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek emergency care if you experience rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing.

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

Lupus-like syndrome
Consult doctor if you develop joint pain, rash, or fever.
Agranulocytosis
Report any signs of infection immediately.
Metabolic acidosis
Seek medical attention if you experience rapid breathing or confusion.

Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.

🔬 Drug Interactions

Drug Severity Effect
Rifampicin Major
Phenytoin Major
Carbamazepine Major
Warfarin Major
Alcohol Moderate
Acetaminophen Moderate
Ketoconazole Moderate
Antacids Minor

🚨 Major Interactions

  • Rifampicin
  • Phenytoin
  • Carbamazepine
  • Warfarin

⚡ Moderate Interactions

  • Alcohol
  • Acetaminophen
  • Ketoconazole

🍷 Alcohol Interaction

Alcohol should be avoided while taking this medicine because it increases the risk of hepatotoxicity. Both Isoniazid and alcohol are metabolized by the liver, and their combined use can lead to severe liver damage.

🔎 Check Your Other Medicines

Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.

🛡️ Safety & Warnings

🚫 Contraindications

["Hypersensitivity to Isoniazid or any component of the formulation","Acute liver disease","Previous Isoniazid-induced hepatitis","Severe renal impairment without dose adjustment"]

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

["Hepatotoxicity: Monitor liver function closely. Discontinue if signs of liver damage occur.","Peripheral neuropathy: Supplement with pyridoxine (vitamin B6) as needed.","Alcohol use: Avoid alcohol to reduce risk of liver damage.","Drug interactions: Inform doctor of all medications being taken.","Pregnancy: Use with caution; pyridoxine supplementation recommended.","Breastfeeding: Monitor infant for signs of toxicity.","Renal impairment: Dose adjustment may be required.","Elderly: Increased risk of hepatotoxicity; monitor closely."]

🤱 Lactation Safety

Isoniazid is excreted in breast milk in small amounts. It is generally considered safe during breastfeeding, but the infant should be monitored for signs of toxicity. Pyridoxine supplementation for the infant may be considered.

💊 Overdose Management

Overdose of Isoniazid can cause nausea, vomiting, dizziness, slurred speech, seizures, and metabolic acidosis. Immediate medical attention is required. Treatment includes activated charcoal if within 1-2 hours of ingestion, intravenous pyridoxine, and supportive care. Hemodialysis may be considered in severe cases.

⏰ 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 double the dose to catch up.

Additional Safety Advice

General Safety

Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not skip doses or stop treatment early, even if you feel better. This medicine is usually taken on an empty stomach, but if it causes stomach upset, you may take it with food. Avoid alcohol consumption while on this medicine as it increases the risk of liver damage. Regular monitoring of liver function tests is recommended, especially during the first few months of treatment. Inform your doctor if you have a history of liver disease, alcohol abuse, or are taking other medications that affect the liver. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, consult your doctor before taking this medicine. Do not share this medicine with others, even if they have similar symptoms. Keep this medicine out of reach of children.

👴 Special Considerations for Elderly

💡 For Patients Above 65

Elderly patients are at higher risk of hepatotoxicity and peripheral neuropathy. Close monitoring of liver function and neurological symptoms is recommended. Dose adjustment may be necessary based on renal and hepatic function.

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

If you are planning to become pregnant, consult your doctor. Isoniazid is generally considered safe during pregnancy, but pyridoxine supplementation is recommended. Untreated TB poses greater risks to both mother and fetus.

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

Inform your surgeon and anesthesiologist that you are taking this medicine. It may interact with other medications used during surgery. Continue taking it as prescribed unless instructed otherwise.

🦷 Dental Procedures

Inform your dentist that you are taking this medicine. It may interact with certain antibiotics or anesthetics. Maintain good oral hygiene to prevent infections.

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏃
Maintain a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables to support liver health.
🥗
Avoid alcohol completely to reduce the risk of liver damage.
😴
Get regular exercise to boost your immune system.
💧
Ensure adequate sleep to help your body fight infection.
🧘
Practice good hygiene to prevent spreading TB to others.
🌞
Take your medicine at the same time every day to maintain consistent levels.

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

Moderate exercise is generally safe while taking this medicine. However, if you experience dizziness or fatigue, avoid strenuous activities until you feel better. Consult your doctor before starting any new exercise regimen.

🥗 Diet Recommendations

Include plenty of fruits and vegetables.
Choose whole grains over refined grains.
Limit processed foods and sugary drinks.
Stay well hydrated.
Avoid alcohol.

💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life

This medicine may cause dizziness or fatigue in some people. If affected, avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how it affects you. Otherwise, it should not significantly impact your daily activities.

🛑 When to Stop This Medicine

Do not stop taking this medicine without consulting your doctor. Stopping early can lead to treatment failure and drug resistance. If you experience severe side effects, contact your doctor immediately for guidance.

📅 Long-Term Use Effects

Long-term use of Isoniazid may lead to peripheral neuropathy, which can be prevented with pyridoxine supplementation. Regular monitoring of liver function is essential as hepatotoxicity can occur. With proper monitoring and adherence, long-term use is generally safe and effective for treating tuberculosis.

🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches

These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.

Nutritional support

A healthy diet can support immune function during TB treatment.

Evidence: Well-established
Vitamin B6 supplementation

Prevents peripheral neuropathy caused by Isoniazid.

Evidence: Well-established

💉 Vaccination Considerations

💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated

Isoniazid may reduce the efficacy of live vaccines. Consult your doctor before receiving any vaccinations 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 traveling, carry your medicine in its original packaging along with a copy of your prescription. Ensure you have enough supply for the entire trip. Store at room temperature and avoid extreme heat or moisture. If crossing time zones, adjust dosing times gradually in consultation with your doctor. Check customs regulations for carrying prescription medications.

💰 Cost Analysis & Savings

👥 Real Patient Stories

Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.

👤 A 35-year-old man diagnosed with active pulmonary tuberculosis
He was started on a combination regimen including Isoniazid. Initially, he experienced mild nausea, which subsided after taking the medicine with food. He adhered to the treatment and completed the full course. His liver function tests were monitored regularly and remained normal. He recovered fully and emphasizes the importance of not missing doses.
💡 Lesson: Adherence to the full course and regular monitoring are key to successful TB treatment.
👤 A 50-year-old woman with latent tuberculosis infection
She was prescribed Isoniazid alone for 6 months. She developed tingling in her feet after 2 months, which was managed with pyridoxine supplementation. She completed the therapy without further issues and did not develop active TB.
💡 Lesson: Peripheral neuropathy is a common side effect that can be prevented or treated with vitamin B6.

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

Q: How long does it take to work?

A: It may take several weeks to see improvement in symptoms. Complete the full course as prescribed.

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

A: No, you must complete the full course to prevent relapse and resistance.

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

A: Take it as soon as you remember, but if it's almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not double dose.

🤔 Common Patient Concerns

💭 These are the concerns patients most commonly raise

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

🔄 Substitutes for isonex 100mg tablet

View All

Alternative brands with exact same active ingredient:

Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.

🛑 Myths vs. Facts

  • Myth: Isoniazid can be stopped once symptoms improve.
    Fact: Treatment must be completed as prescribed to prevent relapse and resistance.
  • Myth: Isoniazid is safe to take with alcohol.
    Fact: Alcohol increases the risk of liver damage and should be avoided.

🔄 Alternative Options

Generic Alternatives

  • Isoniazid 100 mg tablet
  • Isoniazid 300 mg tablet

Brand Alternatives

  • Solonex DT Tablet
  • Isokin Tablet
  • INH Tablet

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

[{"medicine":"Isoniazid","class":"Antitubercular","main_use":"Tuberculosis","route":"Oral"},{"medicine":"Rifampicin","class":"Antitubercular","main_use":"Tuberculosis","route":"Oral"}]

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