Pyrazinamide Fact Sheet

Revised: Nov. 2016

Medication Information

Pyrazinamide (PZA) is an antibiotic medicine. It is used to cure active tuberculosis (TB) in combination with other medicines.

The TB germs are very strong and are hard to get rid of. You will need to take this medicine for 2 or more months in order to kill the TB bacteria. Your doctor will decide how many months you will need to take the medicine.

Taking the Medication

• Take this medicine as directed by your doctor.
• Even if you start to feel better, it is important to keep taking this medicine until the doctor tells you to stop.
• This medicine may be taken with or without food.

Possible Side Effects

Most people do not experience problems while taking PZA. You will need to be monitored regularly by your doctor while taking PZA.

• Swollen or painful joints
• Skin rash
• Light hurts the eye
• Nausea, vomiting
• Stomach pain
• Tiredness, weakness
• Yellow skin or eyes
• Loss of appetite
• Very dark urine

*If you have any of these side effects speak with your doctor immediately. If you are unable to reach your doctor, stop taking the medicine until you do speak with your doctor.

Precautions

Do not drink alcohol. Drinking alcohol can increase the chance of liver problems while you are taking PZA.

Special Populations

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor before taking this medicine.

Drug Interactions

Talk to your doctor about other medicines you are taking or any new medicines that you start taking.

Missed Doses

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time to take your next dose, do not take the missed dose. Do not take 2 doses at the same time.

Storage

Store the medicine at room temperature in a cool, dry place. Do not put it in the refrigerator.