Multidrug resistant tuberculosis.
Obtain acid-fast bacilli (AFB) smear and culture from sputum at least monthly until 2 consecutive culture specimens are negative.
Perform chest x-rays after 2-3 months of treatment in patients with negative initial cultures and at end of treatment.
Monitor liver function tests; rash with fever.
Common
Serious
Antimicrobial class: Antimycobacterial
Pregnancy category: C
Average serum half life: 0.75-1 hour
Precautions: Monitor for hepatotoxicity and jaundice, CHF, peptic ulcer disease, and impaired renal function.
Patients with hepatic insufficiency may have poor tolerance for the medication.
If duration of therapy is longer than 1 month, consider maintenance vitamin B12 therapy.