Cycloserine
Cycloserine is a reserve antibiotic used with other active medicines for selected cases of tuberculosis, particularly drug-resistant disease. It has important neurological and psychiatric risks.
Key takeaways
- Cycloserine must be part of a susceptibility-guided tuberculosis regimen and should never be used alone.
- Kidney function, seizure history, alcohol use and mood or behaviour changes require close monitoring.
- Suicidal intent, psychosis, severe confusion or a seizure needs emergency care.
Listings are for comparison only. Suitability and supply depend on clinician and pharmacy checks, stock, destination rules and prescription requirements.
How it works
Cycloserine blocks enzymes needed to build the bacterial cell wall. Resistance develops readily if the rest of the regimen is not effective.
Important safety checks
Kidney impairment, epilepsy, depression, psychosis and alcohol use can increase toxicity. The tuberculosis team may monitor kidney function, medicine exposure and neurological or mental-health symptoms. Pyridoxine may be prescribed as part of the safety plan; do not change the regimen independently.
When to seek urgent care
Seek emergency help for suicidal intent, immediate risk of harm, hallucinations or severe agitation, a seizure, severe confusion, marked unsteadiness or a serious allergic reaction.