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Pyrazinamide

Why is it prescribed?

Pyrazinamide is used in combination with other antitubercular medications to treat tuberculosis in adults and children.

Products that have this ingredient include •PDP-Pyrazinamide tablets •

See other drugs used in the treatment of •tuberculosis •

Along with its needed effects, pyrazinamide may cause some unwanted or undesirable effects. Pyrazinamide is generally well tolerated in most people. The frequency and severity of unwanted effects depend on many factors including dose, age of the person, existing health problems (e.g. gout, diabetes, liver disease) and individual response. Possible unwanted effects include:

  • liver damage (mild to serious)
  • mild joint pain
  • mild muscle pain

Uncommon:

  • gouty attack
  • vomiting
  • nausea
  • loss of appetite

Rare:

  • itching
  • rash
  • fever
  • acne
  • painful urination

If you are, or suspect you are experiencing any unwanted effects, report them to your doctor or pharmacist.


Pyrazinamide is an antituberculosis drug that can be either bactericidal (kill bacteria) or bacteriostatic (inhibit bacterial growth), depending on the concentration of the drug in the body.


  • Pyrazinamide can cause liver damage that can sometimes only be detectable by lab tests. People can expect to have a liver tests before starting, and during therapy. People that have existing liver problems will be monitored more closely. Contact your doctor if you experience any of the following symptoms: fever, appetite loss, yellowing of the skin or eyes,darkened urine, unusual tiredness or weakness or pain or swelling of the joints occurs.
  • Pyrazinamide can cause a build up of uric acid in the body which can cause gouty attacks (accumulation of uric acid in some joints, causing pain) especially in people with a history of gout or in the elderly.  Some people may also require blood work measuring the amount of uric acid in the body.

Use is not recommended in the following situations:

  • severe liver damage
  • allergy to pyrazinamide
  • existing gouty attack

Caution is recommended in the following situations:

  • kidney disease
  • history of gout
  • diabetes


Use in pregnancy: There is insufficient data to assess risk during pregnancy.  Contact your doctor if you suspect you may be pregnant.
Use while breastfeeding: Pyrazinamide passes into breast-milk in small amounts. Contact your doctor or pharmacist before use.