bizen (PYRAZINAMIDE)

What is Bizen?
Bizen is a type of antibiotic used to treat tuberculosis (TB), a bacterial infection that can affect your lungs and other parts of your body. It works by killing or stopping the growth of the bacteria that cause TB. Bizen is absorbed from the stomach and intestines, reaching its highest levels in the blood within 2 hours. It then distributes throughout the body. It's available as a 500 mg tablet.

What is the usual dose of Bizen?
For adults, the usual dose is 15–30 mg/kg once daily, with a maximum of 2 grams per day. In children, the dose is 20–40 mg/kg daily. The exact dose depends on weight and is usually prescribed as part of a combination regimen for TB treatment.

How do I take Bizen?
Bizen is taken orally, usually once daily. It can be taken with or without food, but if it causes stomach upset, taking it with food may help. Avoid alcohol, as it increases the risk of liver damage.

For how long do I take Bizen?
Bizen is typically taken for two months in the intensive phase of TB treatment, along with other TB drugs. The full course of TB treatment usually lasts six months or longer, depending on the patient’s response.

What is Bizen used for?
It is used to treat active tuberculosis (TB), a bacterial infection affecting the lungs and sometimes other body parts. Bizen is not used alone but combined with other TB drugs to prevent resistance and improve effectiveness.

How long does it take for Bizen to start working?
Bizen begins working within a few days, but TB symptoms may take weeks to months to improve. Patients must complete the full treatment course even if they start feeling better to prevent drug-resistant TB.

Is Bizen effective?
Yes, Bizen is highly effective when used in combination with other TB drugs. Studies show that it shortens TB treatment duration and improves cure rates, especially during the intensive treatment phase.

How does one know if Bizen is working?
Improvement in cough, fever, weight gain, and energy levels indicates the medicine is working. Regular sputum tests and chest X-rays help doctors monitor treatment response.

How does Bizen work?
Bizen is converted into its active form inside TB bacteria, disrupting their ability to grow. It works best in acidic environments, like inside infected cells, making it particularly useful in TB treatment.

Who should avoid taking Bizen?
People with severe liver disease, gout, or an allergy to Bizen should avoid it. It should be used cautiously in those with kidney problems or diabetes due to the risk of worsening these conditions.

Can I take Bizen with vitamins or supplements?
Yes, but avoid high-dose vitamin C as it may increase acidity in the body, potentially affecting the medicine's effectiveness. Always inform your doctor about any supplements you take.

Can I take Bizen with other prescription drugs?
Yes, but drug interactions may occur with medications like rifampin (increased liver toxicity risk), allopurinol (used for gout), and diabetes medications. Inform your doctor about all other medicines you are taking.

Can Bizen be taken safely while pregnant?
Bizen is generally safe during pregnancy, but it should only be used if necessary. Some doctors avoid it due to limited safety data. TB in pregnancy must be treated to prevent risks to both mother and baby.

Can Bizen be taken safely while breastfeeding?
Yes, Bizen is considered safe while breastfeeding. It passes into breast milk in small amounts, but it does not harm the baby. Doctors monitor both mother and baby closely during treatment.

Is Bizen safe for the elderly?
Yes, but elderly patients are more at risk for liver toxicity and gout. Regular monitoring of liver function and uric acid levels is important for safety.

How should I store Bizen?
Store Bizen at room temperature (20-25°C) in a dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep it out of reach of children.

Does Bizen make people tired or drowsy?
Fatigue is not a common side effect, but some people may feel weak or tired due to TB itself. If extreme fatigue occurs, report it to your doctor as it may indicate liver issues.

Does Bizen cause stomach upset?
Yes, nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite are common. Taking it with food may help. If symptoms are severe or persistent, talk to your doctor for possible adjustments.

Does Bizen affect sleep?
Bizen does not directly affect sleep, but TB symptoms like night sweats and fatigue may disrupt rest. If sleep issues persist, consult a doctor.

Does Bizen make it hard to think or concentrate?
Rarely, some people may experience mental confusion or dizziness. If these symptoms occur, inform your doctor and avoid activities that require concentration.

Does Bizen affect mood?
Mood changes are rare, but some patients report irritability or depression. If mood swings occur, discuss them with your doctor.

Does Bizen interfere with sexual function?
Bizen does not directly affect sexual function, but fatigue and joint pain may reduce interest in sexual activity. If concerns arise, speak to your doctor.

Does Bizen affect appetite?
Yes, loss of appetite is common. Eating small, frequent meals and staying hydrated may help. If severe weight loss occurs, medical advice is needed.

Does Bizen cause weight gain?
No, weight gain is not common. However, if TB treatment is effective, patients may regain lost weight.

Does Bizen cause headaches?
Headaches may occur but are not very common. Drinking enough water and resting can help. If severe, consult a doctor.

Does Bizen limit driving?
Usually, Bizen does not affect driving, but dizziness or fatigue may occur. If you feel drowsy, avoid driving until you feel better.

Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Bizen?
No, alcohol should be completely avoided, as it increases the risk of liver damage. Even occasional drinking can be harmful during TB treatment.

Is it safe to drink coffee or tea while taking Bizen?
No, alcohol should be completely avoided, as it increases the risk of liver damage. Even occasional drinking can be harmful during TB treatment.

Is it safe to exercise while taking Bizen?
Yes, but moderate activity is recommended. TB itself can cause weakness, so avoid strenuous exercise until you feel better.

What are Bizen possible harms and risks?
Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, joint pain, and loss of appetite. The most serious risk is liver toxicity, which may cause yellowing of the skin (jaundice), dark urine, or abdominal pain. Report any unusual symptoms to a doctor immediately.
Available in 3 variations

Bizen 1000mg Tablet
Bizen 1000mg Tablet
Pyrazinamide (1000mg)
strip of 10 tablets

Bizen 500mg Tablet
Bizen 500mg Tablet
Pyrazinamide (500mg)
strip of 10 tablets

Bizen 750mg Tablet
Bizen 750mg Tablet
Pyrazinamide (750mg)
strip of 10 tablets