Ethambutol
Ethambutol is an antimycobacterial antibiotic used as part of combination therapy to treat active pulmonary tuberculosis caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It is typically administered alongside other anti-tuberculosis medications such as isoniazid and rifampin to prevent resistance development. This medication requires regular monitoring and is not recommended for use in children who cannot reliably report visual changes.
Ethambutol is an anti-tuberculosis medication used in combination therapy that works by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- J04AK02
- RxNorm
- 4110
- Generic
- Ethambutol
- Class
- atc-j04
- Brands
- Myambutol
- Availability
- rx
- Pregnancy
- C
- Lactation
- caution
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- tablet
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Treatment of active pulmonary tuberculosis in combination with other anti-mycobacterial agents. It is used during the intensive phase of TB therapy alongside isoniazid, rifampin, and pyrazinamide.
Ethambutol inhibits arabinosyl transferase, an enzyme essential for the synthesis of arabinogalactan, a key component of the mycobacterial cell wall. By disrupting cell wall synthesis, it prevents bacterial replication and allows other anti-tubercular agents to act more effectively.
Regular visual acuity and color vision testing is required due to risk of dose-dependent optic neuritis. Should be discontinued immediately if visual symptoms develop. Not recommended for children under 5 years of age or patients unable to report visual changes. May cause hyperuricemia.
Official drug label
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This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy