HomeAnswersOtolaryngology (E.N.T)anti tubercular drugsHow to prevent the side effects of AKT-4 taken for tuberculosis?

AKT-4 taken for tuberculosis is affecting my ear and mind. How to stay away from it?

Share

The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

Medically reviewed by

Dr. Vinodhini J.

Published At February 28, 2020
Reviewed AtAugust 3, 2023

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I am taking AKT-4 tablet for TB. It is affecting my ear and mind. Please suggest an idea to stay against it.

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

The anti-tubercular drug AKT-4 is a cocktail of four drugs namely Isoniazid, Rifampicin, Pyrazinamide, and Ethambutol. I will concentrate on the side effects that have disturbed you now, side effects on the ear and the neurological effects. Most of the neurological effects are caused due to Isoniazid. It is known to cause decreased sensations, altered mental status, numbness, etc. To counteract the same Pyridoxine 100 mg per day is given. Pyridoxine is a B-complex vitamin whose function is affected by Isoniazid. Nextly, Ethambutol can cause some mild neurological disturbances and significant vision problems. It can result in decreased field and accuracy of vision. If you experience any such defects with vision please contact the doctor who prescribed AKT-4 and ask him if Ethambutol can be substituted. Ear side effects are common with Streptomycin (another anti-tubercular drug). But Streptomycin is not present in AKT 4. So you need not worry. Tuberculosis requires dedicated treatment for a long time. Some amount of side effects are inevitable for the sake of curing the disease. Earlier longer therapies were advocated for TB which used to have even more side effects. A good diet, regular exercise, calm and peaceful mind and vitamin supplements are all necessary to tide over the many of the side effects caused by these drugs.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Shyam Kalyan. N
Dr. Shyam Kalyan. N

Otolaryngology (E.N.T)

Community Banner Mobile
By subscribing, I agree to iCliniq's Terms & Privacy Policy.

Ask your health query to a doctor online

Otolaryngology (E.N.T)

*guaranteed answer within 4 hours

Disclaimer: No content published on this website is intended to be a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, advice or treatment by a trained physician. Seek advice from your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with questions you may have regarding your symptoms and medical condition for a complete medical diagnosis. Do not delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice because of something you have read on this website. Read our Editorial Process to know how we create content for health articles and queries.

This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. iCliniq privacy policy