Buy Generic Ethionamide Online

Generic Ethionamide Information

Introduction

Ethionamide is an oral antibiotic classified within the second‑line anti‑tuberculosis (TB) agents. It contains the active compound Ethionamide and belongs to the broader medication group of antibiotics. In Hong Kong, Ethionamide is prescribed for multidrug‑resistant (MDR) or extensively drug‑resistant (XDR) tuberculosis when first‑line drugs are ineffective or not tolerated. The drug is supplied by a variety of international manufacturers and is available in generic form through licensed pharmacies.

What is Ethionamide?

Ethionamide is a synthetic thioamide that inhibits the growth of Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It was first synthesized in the 195s and later approved for TB treatment in many countries. Several brand‑name products contain the same active compound, including Ethion and the combination product Tebrosan.

Ethionamide is the generic version of Ethion (and Tebrosan), containing the same active compound Ethionamide. Our online pharmacy provides this generic alternative as a cost‑effective treatment option.

Multiple pharmaceutical companies manufacture the generic tablets, which are marketed in Hong Kong by pharmacies that import from overseas licensed suppliers.

How Ethionamide Works

Ethionamide is a pro‑drug that requires activation by the mycobacterial enzyme ethA. Once activated, it forms a covalent adduct that interferes with the synthesis of mycolic acids—essential fatty acids that constitute the mycobacterial cell wall. By disrupting mycolic‑acid production, the drug weakens the bacterial cell envelope, leading to bacteriostatic activity and, at higher concentrations, bactericidal effects.

The onset of antimicrobial activity typically occurs within a few days of initiation, but the full therapeutic effect may require several weeks because TB organisms divide slowly. Ethionamide is metabolized primarily in the liver; its half‑life ranges from 2 to 3 hours, but steady‑state concentrations are achieved after 3–5 days of consistent dosing.

Conditions Treated with Ethionamide

• Multidrug‑Resistant Tuberculosis (MDR‑TB) – resistance to at least isoniazid and rifampicin. Ethionamide is a core component of many MDR‑TB regimens recommended by the WHO.
• Extensively Drug‑Resistant Tuberculosis (XDR‑TB) – resistance to first‑line agents plus any fluoroquinolone and at least one second‑line injectable. Ethionamide is often retained when susceptibility testing confirms activity.
• Other Mycobacterial Infections – occasional use in non‑tuberculous mycobacterial (NTM) infections where drug susceptibility data support its efficacy.

In Hong Kong, the incidence of MDR‑TB remains low but clinically significant, representing roughly 2–3 % of all TB cases reported by the Centre for Health Protection. Access to effective second‑line agents such as Ethionamide is essential for achieving cure rates above 80 % in these patients.

Who is Ethionamide For?

Ethionamide is indicated for adult patients (≥ 18 years) with confirmed pulmonary or extrapulmonary TB that is resistant to first‑line agents, provided that susceptibility testing demonstrates sensitivity to Ethionamide. Suitable candidates include:

• Individuals with documented MDR‑TB or XDR‑TB who have failed or cannot tolerate first‑line regimens.
• Patients receiving a standardized WHO‑recommended MDR‑TB regimen that incorporates Ethionamide as a core drug.
• Adults with specific NTM infections where culture results show susceptibility.

The medication is not recommended for:

• Pregnant or breastfeeding women, unless the potential benefit outweighs fetal risk (category C).
• Patients with severe hepatic impairment (Child‑Pugh class C) because Ethionamide is hepatically metabolized.
• Individuals with known hypersensitivity to thioamides or any component of the tablet formulation.

Clinicians should evaluate liver function, baseline visual acuity, and peripheral nerve status before initiating therapy.

Risks, Side Effects, and Interactions

Common

• Nausea, vomiting, or abdominal discomfort
• Loss of appetite (anorexia)
• Skin rash or pruritus
• Mild peripheral neuropathy (tingling, numbness)

Rare

• Hypothyroidism (particularly when combined with other anti‑TB drugs)
• Visual disturbances, including blurred vision or photophobia
• serum transaminases without clinical hepatitis

Serious

• Hepatotoxicity leading to jaundice, hepatic failure, or need for discontinuation
• Severe peripheral neuropathy that may progress to functional impairment
• Agranulocytosis (dangerously low white‑blood‑cell count)
• Drug‑induced lupus‑like syndrome

Clinically Relevant Interactions

• Isoniazid – additive hepatotoxic risk; concurrent use requires close liver‑function monitoring.
• Rifampicin – induces hepatic enzymes, reducing Ethionamide plasma concentrations and potentially compromising efficacy. Dose adjustment or alternative agents may be needed.
• Pyridoxine (Vitamin B6) – co‑administration mitigates peripheral neuropathy; standard practice is to give 25–50 mg daily.
• Anticonvulsants (e.g., phenytoin, carbamazepine) – enzyme induction may lower Ethionamide levels.
• Antiretroviral agents (especially protease inhibitors) – may increase hepatotoxic potential; monitor liver enzymes closely in co‑infected HIV‑TB patients.

Patients should disclose all prescription, over‑the‑counter, and herbal products before starting Ethionamide.

Practical Use: Dosing, Missed Dose, Overdose

• Typical adult dose: 250 mg to 500 mg orally twice daily (total 500–1 000 mg per day). In severe disease or when tolerability permits, the dose may be increased up to 1 500 mg per day in divided doses. Dosing is adjusted for body weight (approximately 15–20 mg/kg) and hepatic function.
• Administration: Take tablets with a full glass of water. Food may reduce gastrointestinal irritation but does not significantly affect absorption; patients may choose to take the drug with or without meals based on personal tolerance.
• Missed dose: If a dose is forgotten, take it as soon as remembered unless the next scheduled dose is within 2 hours. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue the regular schedule; do not double‑dose.
• Overdose: Symptoms may include severe nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, tremor, seizures, or altered mental status. Immediate medical attention is required. Activated charcoal may be administered in a clinical setting; there is no specific antidote.
• Precautions: Avoid alcohol, which can exacerbate hepatotoxicity. Patients with pre‑existing peripheral neuropathy should receive pyridoxine prophylaxis and regular neurologic assessments.

Monitoring parameters include liver‑function tests (ALT, AST, bilirubin) every 2 weeks for the first two months, then monthly; complete blood count for agranulocytosis; and periodic visual acuity checks.

Buying Ethionamide from Our Online Pharmacy

Ethionamide can be purchased safely from our online pharmacy in Hong Kong. Our service offers several advantages for patients who require this second‑line anti‑TB medication:

• Affordable Pricing – We source Ethionamide directly from licensed overseas manufacturers, enabling us to sell at prices close to the manufacturer’s cost.
• Verified Quality – All batches are shipped by certified suppliers who adhere to Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) standards; each package includes a batch number and expiry date for verification.
• Guaranteed Delivery – Discreet, reliable shipping is provided via 7‑day express courier for urgent needs, or regular airmail (approximately 3 weeks) for non‑urgent orders.
• Online‑Only Access – Our pharmacy broker service works with overseas licensed pharmacies, allowing us to bring internationally approved medications to Hong Kong residents who may face limited local supply.
• Privacy‑Respecting Service – Packaging is unbranded and plain, protecting patient confidentiality throughout the delivery process.

Patients seeking a cost‑effective, high‑quality generic alternative to brand‑name Ethionamide products can rely on our platform for timely access.

FAQ

• Is Ethionamide available in both brand‑name and generic forms in Hong Kong?
  Yes. Brand‑name products such as Ethion and Tebrosan contain the same active compound as the generic tablets sold by our online pharmacy. Generic versions are typically less expensive while maintaining identical efficacy.

• What temperature range is suitable for storing Ethionamide tablets?
  Store the medication at room temperature, ideally between 20 °C and 25 °C (68 °F–77 °F). Keep the bottles away from direct sunlight, excessive heat, and moisture to preserve potency.

• Does Ethionamide require any special precautions when traveling abroad?
  When traveling, keep the medication in its original packaging with a copy of the prescription or a doctor's letter, as some countries require documentation for importation of anti‑TB drugs. Avoid exposing the tablets to extreme temperatures, such as in a hot car trunk.

• Are there differences in tablet appearance between manufacturers?
  Yes. Generic Ethionamide tablets may vary in shape, colour, and imprint depending on the supplier. Commonly, tablets are round, white to off‑white, and may bear a “250” or “500” imprint indicating strength. Check the label for the exact dosage before use.

• Can Ethionamide be taken with over‑the‑counter pain relievers like ibuprofen?
  Short‑term use of non‑steroidal anti‑inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) does not typically interact with Ethionamide. However, both drugs can affect the stomach lining; taking them with food can reduce gastrointestinal irritation.

• What are the regulatory requirements for importing Ethionamide for personal use in Hong Kong?
  Personal import of prescription‑only medicines is permitted if the quantity does not exceed a 3‑month supply and the import is for personal use. A valid prescription or medical certificate must accompany the shipment; our pharmacy ensures compliance with Hong Kong customs regulations.

• Why is pyridoxine co‑prescribed with Ethionamide?
  Pyridoxine (vitamin B6) reduces the risk of peripheral neuropathy, a known adverse effect of Ethionamide. A daily supplemental dose of 25–50 mg is standard practice in TB regimens that include Ethionamide.

• How does Ethionamide compare with other second‑line TB drugs such as fluoroquinolones?
  Ethionamide targets mycolic‑acid synthesis, whereas fluoroquinolones inhibit DNA gyrase. Both are effective against resistant TB, but fluoroquinolones generally have a faster bactericidal effect and a more favourable safety profile. Choice depends on susceptibility patterns and patient tolerance.

• Is there any evidence that Ethionamide affects blood glucose levels?
  Current clinical data do not indicate a direct impact of Ethionamide on glucose metabolism. Patients with diabetes should monitor blood sugar as usual, as TB infection itself can cause fluctuations.

• Can Ethionamide be used in patients with chronic kidney disease?
  Ethionamide is primarily metabolised by the liver, and no dosage adjustment is required for mild to moderate renal impairment. In severe renal failure (eGFR < 30 mL/min), close monitoring is advised because metabolites may accumulate.

• What should I do if I notice a rash after starting Ethionamide?
  A mild rash is a common side effect and may be observed during the first weeks of therapy. If the rash is limited and not accompanied by fever or systemic symptoms, continue the medication and inform your clinician. Discontinue immediately and seek medical attention if the rash becomes widespread, blistering, or is associated with breathing difficulty.

• Does Ethionamide interfere with drug testing for employment or sports?
  Ethionamide is not included in standard workplace or athletic drug‑screening panels. However, at very high concentrations, it could theoretically trigger a positive result for “thioamide” compounds; informing the testing agency in advance is advisable.

Glossary

Mycolic acids

Long‑chain fatty acids that are essential components of the mycobacterial cell wall, providing structural integrity and resistance to chemical damage.

Hepatotoxicity

Liver injury caused by a drug, manifested by elevated liver enzymes, jaundice, or, in severe cases, liver failure.

Peripheral neuropathy

Damage to the nerves outside the brain and spinal cord, leading to symptoms such as tingling, numbness, or burning sensations, often in the hands and feet.

Pyridoxine

Vitamin B6, commonly administered with Ethionamide to prevent drug‑induced peripheral neuropathy.

⚠️ Disclaimer

The information provided about Ethionamide is for general knowledge only. It does not replace professional medical consultation. All treatment decisions should be made under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider. We assume all readers are responsible adults capable of making informed decisions about their health. Our online pharmacy offers access to Ethionamide for individuals who may have limited availability through traditional pharmacies, prescription‑based insurance schemes, or who are seeking affordable generic alternatives. Always consult your doctor before starting, changing, or discontinuing any medication.