Isoniazid

About your medicine

Isoniazid is a drug which may be taken after a kidney transplant by patients who may come into contact with or have previously had Tuberculosis (TB) - a long term infection of the chest. It is given at a low dose to prevent TB infections.

Taking your medicine

You should swallow the tablets whole with a glass of water, take them exactly as recommended by the doctor (usually 200mg once a day). It is best to take the tablets half an hour before food or two hours after so that your stomach is empty.

Unwanted effects

As with all medicines, isoniazid can cause side effects in some people. The most common side effects include feeling sick and being sick.You should tell your doctor if you suffer badly with being sick. You may also get ‘peripheral neuropathy’ which can cause tingling or a loss of feeling in your hands and feet. This can be avoided by taking another tablet called pyridoxine once a day. This is a vitamin which should be taken every day while you are taking isoniazid.

Other side effects can include liver problems that will be noticed on blood tests.

Storing your medicine

You should store the tablets in their original packet in a cool, dry place out of the reach of children.

Other advice

Always take your tablets as directed by your doctor and only stop them on the advice of your doctor.

Some drugs may cause a problem when taken with isoniazid. These include some anti-epileptic drugs and theophylline. This is not a full list so always check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking any other medication along with isoniazid.

NKF Controlled Document No. 67, Isoniazid, written 22 April 2000. Last reviewed 10 March 2010.

The National Kidney Federation cannot accept responsibility for information provided. The above is for guidance only. Patients are advised to seek further information from their own doctor.

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