Isoniazid: how to take it safely
INH, Isoniazid
Reviewed by Pharm. Abeeb Junior
What it is for
Treats and prevents tuberculosis (TB).
How to take it
- Prescription medicine: take it exactly as your doctor or pharmacist told you.
- Swallow with water.
- Take it every day and finish the full course.
- Take vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) if your doctor told you to.
When to take it
Take it once a day at the same time.
Take it with
On an empty stomach if possible, or with a little food if it upsets you.
What to avoid
- Missing doses or stopping early. This can lead to drug-resistant TB.
- Alcohol.
- Tell your pharmacist about all medicines you take.
- Antacids containing aluminium within 1 hour of your dose.
- Tell your doctor if you have liver problems.
Possible side effects
Nausea, tingling in hands and feet, loss of appetite.
Get help if
Yellow skin or eyes, dark urine, severe stomach pain, numbness or tingling, or blurred vision: see a doctor.
This is general information, not personal medical advice. Always follow your doctor's or pharmacist's instructions and read the leaflet that comes with your medicine. Medicines and doses can differ between products and people.