What does it do?

Protionamide is an antibiotic used with other medicines to treat tuberculosis (TB).

Before you start

• Tell your doctor if you have liver or mental health problems, or diabetes.
• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.

How should you take it?

Take protionamide regularly as directed with a glass of water. You can take it with or without food. Keep taking it until the course is finished.
It is important to take it regularly. If you often forget to take it, it may not work as well.

What if you forget a dose?

If it is nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the usual time. Otherwise, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Do not take two doses at the same time.

Can you take other medicines?

Tell your pharmacist or doctor about all medicines or treatments that you may be taking, including vitamins, herbal products or recreational drugs.

What side effects might you notice?

Side Effects	Recommended action
Symptoms of liver problems including: yellow skin or eyes, itching, dark urine, pale bowel motions, abdominal pain Eye pain, changes in vision	Tell your doctor immediately
Unusual behaviour or thinking, low mood Tingling or numbness	Tell your doctor
Headache, dizziness More saliva than usual, drooling Pain, sores, or redness in mouth or on lips Loss of appetite, metallic taste	Tell your doctor if troublesome
Nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, tummy pain	Take with food and tell your doctor if symptoms continue

If you notice any other effects, discuss them with your doctor or pharmacist.

Other information:

• Limit alcohol intake while taking protionamide. Alcohol may increase the risk of liver problems.
• You will need regular blood tests while taking protionamide to check if it is causing problems with your liver or thyroid.
• Your doctor may prescribe pyridoxine (vitamin B6) to help prevent side effects of protionamide.
• Protionamide is not registered for use in New Zealand. Discuss with your doctor.