Isoniazid Overview and Mnemonic

Key Points

• Medication: Isoniazid
• Use: Treats tuberculosis (TB)
• Mnemonic Symbol: Ice machine in a hotel hallway (Isoniazid starts with "ice").

Usage

• TB Treatment: Isoniazid treats TB including active and latent TB and is used prophylactically for TB exposure.
• Combination: Often used with other anti-tubercular drugs (e.g., rifampin).
• Mechanism: Inhibits synthesis of the mycobacterial cell wall.

Side Effects and Monitoring

Hepatotoxicity (Liver Damage)

• Mnemonic Symbol: Liver-shaped lever on the ice machine.
• Signs: Jaundice, nausea, vomiting, dark-colored urine.
• Monitoring: Check liver enzymes (AST and ALT).
• Precautions: Avoid giving with other hepatotoxic agents (e.g., acetaminophen, alcohol). Question order if patient has existing liver damage.

Peripheral Neuropathy

• Mnemonic Symbol: Frayed, sparking wire.
• Symptoms: Tingling in the extremities.
• Cause: Deficiency in vitamin B6 due to isoniazid interference.
• Prevention: Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) supplementation.
• Mnemonic Symbol: Breadsticks (B6, Breadsticks sounds similar).

Recap

• Function: Isoniazid treats active and latent TB; used prophylactically for TB exposure.
• Side Effects: Hepatotoxicity (liver damage) and peripheral neuropathy (preventable with vitamin B6).

Resources

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