macrozide (PYRAZINAMIDE)

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

How long does it take for Macrozide to start working?
Macrozide 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 Macrozide effective?
Yes, Macrozide 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 Macrozide 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 Macrozide work?
Macrozide 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 Macrozide?
People with severe liver disease, gout, or an allergy to Macrozide 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 Macrozide 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 Macrozide 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 Macrozide be taken safely while pregnant?
Macrozide 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 Macrozide be taken safely while breastfeeding?
Yes, Macrozide 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 Macrozide 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 Macrozide?
Store Macrozide at room temperature (20-25°C) in a dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep it out of reach of children.

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

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

Does Macrozide interfere with sexual function?
Macrozide 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 Macrozide 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 Macrozide cause weight gain?
No, weight gain is not common. However, if TB treatment is effective, patients may regain lost weight.

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

Does Macrozide limit driving?
Usually, Macrozide 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 Macrozide?
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 Macrozide?
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 Macrozide?
Yes, but moderate activity is recommended. TB itself can cause weakness, so avoid strenuous exercise until you feel better.

What are Macrozide 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 5 variations

Macrozide 750 Tablet 10s
Pyrazinamide (750mg)
strip of 10 tablets

Macrozide 1000 Tablet
Pyrazinamide (1000mg)
strip of 6 tablets

Macrozide 1500 Tablet 6s
Pyrazinamide (1500mg)
strip of 6 tablets

Macrozide 1200mg Tablet
Pyrazinamide (1200mg)
strip of 6 tablets

Macrozide 500 Tablet
Pyrazinamide (500mg)
strip of 6 tablets