Bedaquiline 100 mg tablet

What is Bedaquiline 100 mg tablet?

Bedaquiline 100 mg tablet is an antitubercular medication used to treat multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB). It belongs to a class of drugs known as diarylquinolines, which work by inhibiting the ATP synthase enzyme essential for energy production in Mycobacterium tuberculosis (the bacteria that causes TB).

This medication is prescribed as part of a combination therapy and is not used alone.

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What is the Use of Bedaquiline 100 mg tablet?

Bedaquiline is specifically used for:

• Treatment of pulmonary multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) in adults and adolescents (≥18 years)

• Used in patients who cannot tolerate or have not responded to other TB treatment regimens

It is not used for drug-sensitive TB or latent TB infection.

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Benefits of Bedaquiline 100 mg tablet

✅ Effective against drug-resistant TB strains
✅ Improves treatment outcomes when used with other second-line TB drugs
✅ Oral administration makes it convenient for long-term therapy
✅ Targeted mechanism of action against TB bacteria

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How to Use Bedaquiline 100 mg Tablet?

• It is usually taken with food to enhance absorption.

• Follow the specific dosing schedule as advised by your doctor, often starting with a higher dose in the first 2 weeks, followed by a lower maintenance dose.

• It must always be taken in combination with other antitubercular medications.

• Do not skip doses and complete the full course to prevent resistance.

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Side Effects of Bedaquiline 100 mg tablet

Like all medications, Bedaquiline may cause side effects.

Common side effects include:

• Nausea

• Joint or chest pain

• Headache

• Vomiting

Serious side effects (seek medical help immediately):

• QT prolongation (irregular heartbeat or palpitations)

• Liver function abnormalities

• Severe allergic reactions

• Visual disturbances

Regular ECG and liver function tests may be recommended during treatment.

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Precautions and Warnings

• Not recommended for children under 18 years unless specifically prescribed.

• Avoid alcohol and drugs that may affect heart rhythm or liver function.

• Inform your doctor about any heart, liver, or electrolyte disorders.

• Do not use Bedaquiline as monotherapy—it must be taken with a full TB regimen.

• Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult their doctor before use.

1. What is Bedaquiline 100 mg tablet used for?
   Bedaquiline is used to treat multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) of the lungs in adults and adolescents when other treatments are not effective.

2. How does Bedaquiline work?
   It inhibits ATP synthase, an enzyme essential for TB bacteria to generate energy, leading to bacterial death.

3. Can Bedaquiline be used alone to treat TB?
   No. It must always be used in combination with other antitubercular medicines to prevent resistance and improve effectiveness.

4. How should I take Bedaquiline?
   Take it with food exactly as prescribed. The typical schedule is:

   • Weeks 1–2: 400 mg once daily

   • Weeks 3–24: 200 mg three times per week

5. What are the common side effects?
   Some common side effects include:

   • Nausea

   • Vomiting

   • Headache

   • Joint pain

   • Chest pain

6. Does Bedaquiline cause heart problems?
   Yes. It can cause QT prolongation, an abnormal heart rhythm. Regular ECG monitoring is essential.

7. Do I need to monitor my liver while on Bedaquiline?
   Yes. Bedaquiline can affect liver function, so liver tests are done regularly during treatment.

8. Can pregnant or breastfeeding women use Bedaquiline?
   Use during pregnancy and breastfeeding is only if clearly needed. Discuss risks and benefits with your doctor.

9. What happens if I miss a dose?
   If you miss a dose:

   • Weeks 1–2: Take it as soon as you remember.

   • Weeks 3–24: If a dose is missed, skip it and take the next scheduled dose.
     Never take a double dose.

10. Can Bedaquiline 100 mg tablet be used for latent or drug-sensitive TB?
    No. It is only for multidrug-resistant pulmonary TB.

11. Is alcohol safe while taking Bedaquiline?
    Avoid alcohol, as it increases the risk of liver damage.

12. How long do I need to take Bedaquiline?
    Usually, treatment lasts 24 weeks (6 months) as part of a longer MDR-TB regimen.

13. Can children take Bedaquiline 100 mg tablet ?
    It is generally not recommended under 18 years unless your doctor decides the benefits outweigh risks.

14. Does Bedaquiline interact with other medicines?
    Yes. Many drugs, especially those affecting heart rhythm or liver, can interact. Tell your doctor about all other medications you are taking.

15. What precautions should I follow while on Bedaquiline?

• Keep all ECG and liver test appointments

• Do not stop treatment without consulting your doctor

• Avoid driving or operating machinery if you feel dizzy