Home/Medicines/Ethambutol
All medicines

Ethambutol

Prescription
Antimycobacterial Agent
Last reviewed 21 Apr 2026 · PetCare.AI Editorial Team
Species
Dog, Cat
Brands
1 available
Formulations
1

Mechanism of action

Inhibits arabinosyl transferase (embB gene product), blocking arabinogalactan synthesis in the mycobacterial cell wall. Bacteriostatic. Used in combination therapy to prevent resistance development of rifampicin and isoniazid.

At a glance

Class
Antimycobacterial Agent
Schedule
Prescription
Storage
Store at room temperature below 30°C, protect from moisture

Dosing

🐕

Dog

Used for Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex and M
Dose
15 mg/kg
Route
PO
Frequency
q24h
🐈

Cat

Used for feline mycobacterial infections (M
Dose
15 mg/kg
Route
PO
Frequency
q24h

Formulations

💊

Other — 1

Strength

Storage

Store at room temperature below 30°C, protect from moisture

Safety

Monitoring parameters

Visual assessment (difficult in animals — fundic exam)Renal function (dose adjustment)Hepatic enzymesClinical/culture response

Interactions

No documented interactions.

Brands

Other markets

Myambutol

FAQs

Frequently asked questions

What is Ethambutol?
Ethambutol is a antimycobacterial agent used in pets. Inhibits arabinosyl transferase (embB gene product), blocking arabinogalactan synthesis in the mycobacterial cell wall. Bacteriostatic. Used in combination therapy to prevent resistance development of rifampicin and isoniazid.
What is Ethambutol used for in pets?
Ethambutol is used in veterinary medicine for: Used for Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex and M; Used for feline mycobacterial infections (M.
What is the Ethambutol dose for dogs?
For dogs, Ethambutol is typically dosed as follows — Used for Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex and M: 15 mg/kg PO q24h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
What is the Ethambutol dose for cats?
For cats, Ethambutol is typically dosed as follows — Used for feline mycobacterial infections (M: 15 mg/kg PO q24h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
Does Ethambutol need a prescription?
Yes. Ethambutol is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.

References

References

Textbooks & handbooks

  • Plumb, D.C. Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2023.
  • Vail, D.M., Thamm, D.H., & Liptak, J.M. (eds.). Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology. 6th ed., Saunders/Elsevier, 2020.
  • Riviere, J.E., & Papich, M.G. (eds.). Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2018.
  • National Research Council. Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats. National Academies Press, Washington DC, 2006.
  • The Merck Veterinary Manual. Merck & Co., Online edition. https://www.merckvetmanual.com/

Clinical guidelines & consensus

  • Fletcher, D.J., Boller, M., Brainard, B.M., et al. "RECOVER Evidence and Knowledge Gap Analysis on Veterinary CPR." Journal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care, 2012;22(S1):S102–S131.
  • American Animal Hospital Association. 2018 AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines for Dogs and Cats. AAHA Press.

Journals & peer-reviewed studies

  • Hogan, D.F., Fox, P.R., Jacob, K., et al. "Secondary prevention of cardiogenic arterial thromboembolism in the cat: The FAT CAT study." Journal of Veterinary Cardiology, 2015;17(Suppl 1):S306–S317.
  • Boswood, A., Häggström, J., Gordon, S.G., et al. "Effect of Pimobendan in Dogs with Preclinical Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease and Cardiomegaly: The EPIC Study — A Randomized Clinical Trial." Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 2016;30(6):1765–1779.
  • ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Toxicology and Poison Management Guidelines. American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control

Regulatory & approvals

  • Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), Government of India. Veterinary Drug Approval Registry, 1969–2026. Directorate General of Health Services. https://cdsco.gov.in/

Databases

  • Washington State University, College of Veterinary Medicine. Veterinary Clinical Pharmacology Laboratory (VCPL) — MDR1 Multidrug Sensitivity Database. https://vcpl.vetmed.wsu.edu/
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet. Find a vet near you →