Trecator SC

Generic name: Ethionamide - Oral

Trecator (Ethionamide) is used with other medications to treat tuberculosis (TB). Trecator is an antibiotic and works by stopping the growth of bacteria. This antibiotic treats only bacterial infections. It will not work for viral infections (such as common cold, flu). Unnecessary use or misuse of any antibiotic can lead to its decreased effectiveness. This section contains uses of this drug that are not listed in the approved professional labeling for the drug but that may be prescribed by your health care professional. Use this drug for a condition that is listed in this section only if it has been so prescribed by your health care professional. This drug may also be used with other medications to help treat a certain serious infection (Mycobacterium avium complex-MAC).

How to use:
Take this medication by mouth with or without food, usually once daily or as directed by your doctor. If this medication causes stomach upset or nausea/vomiting, take this medication with meals. Also, discuss with your doctor if it may be helpful to divide your daily dose into smaller doses to be taken several times a day. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully. The dosage is based on your age, weight, medical condition, and response to treatment. Antibiotics work best when the amount of medicine in your body is kept at a constant level. Therefore, take this drug at evenly spaced intervals. To help you remember, take it at the same time(s) each day. Continue to take this medication (and other TB medications) until the full prescribed amount is finished, even if symptoms disappear. Stopping the medication too early or skipping doses may allow the bacteria to continue to grow, which may result in a return of the infection and cause the infection to be more difficult to treat (resistant).Your doctor may also direct you to take vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) to help prevent certain side effects (such as nerve problems) from ethionamide. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully. Tell your doctor if your condition persists or worsens.

Side Effects:
Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal/stomach pain, increased saliva, strange metallic taste in the mouth, loss of appetite, or sores in the mouth may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication may develop serious side effects, but with frequent visits to your doctor, this risk can be minimized.

Ppecautions:
Before taking Trecator, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details. Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: liver disease, kidney disease, underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism), eye problems (such as optic neuritis, cataracts, diabetic retinopathy). Alcohol may increase the risk of liver disease or mental/mood changes. Avoid alcoholic beverages while using this medication.