Pyrazinamide: uses, side effects & brands

Written & medically reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS · Last reviewed 5 November 2026

Pyrazinamide is used in the intensive early phase of TB treatment. It belongs to the Anti-tuberculosis (TB) medicine group. These treat tuberculosis. TB always needs a combination of drugs for several months to cure it and prevent resistance.

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Drug type — dosing is set by your doctor

Measure	Range
Drug class	Anti-tuberculosis (TB) medicine
Type	Prescription
Dose	Individual — ask your doctor or pharmacist

What it is used for

Treats tuberculosis in the first (intensive) phase with other TB drugs
Helps shorten the overall length of TB treatment
Used in some drug-resistant TB regimens

Common brand names

India: Pyzina, P-Zide
Worldwide: (pyrazinamide brands)

Common side effects

Joint pain
Raised uric acid, which can trigger gout
Nausea or loss of appetite
Raised liver enzymes

Before taking it — precautions

Tell your doctor about liver disease or heavy alcohol use; liver checks may be done
Tell your doctor if you have gout
Mention diabetes, kidney disease or pregnancy

When to see a doctor urgently

Yellow skin or eyes, dark urine or persistent vomiting (urgent)
Severe, hot, swollen joint (possible gout)
Severe rash or fever

Not a prescription — no dose shown. The right dose of pyrazinamide depends on age, weight, kidney/liver function and the condition, so MedDroid does not show a dose here. Always get your dose from a doctor or pharmacist and the leaflet inside the pack. General educational information only.

Frequently asked questions

Why do my joints ache?

Pyrazinamide raises uric acid, which can cause joint pain or gout; tell your doctor if it is troublesome.

Why is it only used for the first part of treatment?

It is most useful early on, when it helps kill TB germs faster and shortens total treatment time.

Is it safe for the liver?

It can affect the liver, so avoid alcohol and report warning signs such as yellow eyes.

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Sources & further reading

Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.