How should Rifampicin, Isoniazid, Ethambutol, and Pyrazinamide be taken?
Rifampin, isoniazid, ethambutol, and pyrazinamide are the four drugs used in the quadruple antituberculous therapy. They are mainly taken with warm water, and the specific usage and dosage should be followed according to the doctor's instructions. As the condition of each patient is different, the interval, dosage, and treatment plan of the medication may vary. It is crucial to take the medication on time and avoid randomly increasing or decreasing the dosage during the treatment period.
Rifampin should be taken on an empty stomach, while the other drugs can be taken after meals. This is determined by the doctor based on the patient's weight. It is important to adhere to the principles of tuberculosis treatment, which include full-course treatment, adequate dosage, combination therapy, early treatment, and ensuring that the dosage is suitable for the individual.
Tuberculosis is a highly contagious disease, and it takes 6 to 8 months for the tubercle bacillus to lose its activity and reduce infectivity. It is crucial not to stop the medication without the doctor's advice, as it may lead to a relapse of the disease. Additionally, when taking antituberculous drugs and temporarily not using other medications, it is advisable to consult with the doctor first to avoid any potential interactions between the drugs.
During the treatment period, patients should regularly visit the hospital for physical examinations to keep track of their physical condition and avoid any potential liver or kidney damage, which can lead to more severe consequences.