Isoniazid with rifampicin is a drug used for the treatment and prevention of tuberculosis and can be associated with other drugs.
This medicine is available in pharmacies but can only be obtained by presenting a medical prescription and should be used with caution, due to the contraindications and side effects it presents.
How to use
In all forms of pulmonary and extrapulmonary tuberculosis, except meningitis and patients over 20 kg in weight, they must take, daily, the doses shown in the following table:
| Weight | Isoniazid | Rifampicin | Capsules |
| 21 - 35 Kg | 200 mg | 300 mg | 1 capsule of 200 + 300 |
| 36 - 45 Kg | 300 mg | 450 mg | 1 capsule of 200 + 300 and another of 100 + 150 |
| More than 45 Kg | 400 mg | 600 mg | 2 capsules of 200 + 300 |
The dose should be administered as a single dose, preferably in the morning on an empty stomach, or two hours after a meal. Treatment must be carried out for 6 months, however the doctor may change the dosage.
Mechanism of action
Isoniazid and rifampicin are substances that fight the bacterium that causes tuberculosis, known as Mycobacterium tuberculosis .
Isoniazid is a substance that inhibits rapid division and leads to the death of mycobacteria, which cause tuberculosis, and rifampicin is an antibiotic that inhibits the multiplication of sensitive bacteria and although it has action against several bacteria, it is especially used in the treatment of leprosy and tuberculosis.
Who should not use
This medicine should not be used in people who are allergic to any component present in the formula, people with liver or kidney problems or people who are taking medications that can induce changes in the liver.
In addition, it is not recommended for use in children under 20 kg of body weight, pregnant or breastfeeding women.
Possible side effects
The most common side effects that can occur with the use of this medicine are loss of sensation in the extremities like feet and hands and changes in the liver, especially in people over 35 years old. Neuropathy, generally reversible, is more common in malnourished people, alcoholics or people who already have liver problems and when they are exposed to high doses of isoniazid.
In addition, due to the presence of rifampicin, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and intestinal inflammation may also occur.
