Myrin

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Myrin

Medically reviewed

Rosario Oropesa

Last updated on 22/12/2025

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Overview of Myrin

Property Description
Active Ingredients Rifampicin, Isoniazid, Pyrazinamide, Ethambutol hydrochloride
Form Oral Tablet
Pharmacological Class Antitubercular Agent (Antimycobacterial)
Type Fixed-Dose Combination (FDC)
Origin Synthetic

What is Myrin and What Pharmacological Class Does it Belong To?

Myrin is a highly specialized pharmaceutical product classified as an antitubercular agent, used in the comprehensive management of infections caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It is a synthetic Fixed-Dose Combination (FDC) product, meaning it contains a fixed amount of several active ingredients in a single preparation. The drug entity is fundamentally defined by its four potent active components: Rifampicin, Isoniazid, Pyrazinamide, and Ethambutol hydrochloride. This quadrocombination format is a strategic measure employed to provide simultaneous, diverse attacks against the targeted bacteria, maximizing efficacy, and is administered via the oral route.


Myrin’s Composition: The Role of the Four-Drug Combination

The strategic rationale for Myrin's composition is to ensure a synergistic antimicrobial effect and prevent the rapid emergence of drug resistance, which is a common challenge in treating this specific infection. By incorporating four distinct agents—each targeting the bacterial life cycle through a different pathway, such as disrupting genetic material or compromising the cell wall—the medicine delivers a powerful bactericidal outcome. This deliberate combination design is utilized rather than single-drug formulations, as the combined action is essential for achieving a reliable and comprehensive clearance of the infection. This four-drug combination is categorized as an essential medicine within standard treatment protocols. Fixed-dose combinations are intended to simplify medication regimens.


Why is Myrin Defined as a Fixed-Dose Combination (FDC)?

Myrin is designed as an FDC to simplify the treatment regimen and significantly improve patient adherence throughout the extended course of therapy. Instead of requiring the patient to manage, organize, and consume four separate tablets daily, the FDC format consolidates all necessary components into a single oral tablet. This simplification reduces the chances of errors, missed doses, or incorrect drug balancing, which are crucial factors that can otherwise lead to treatment failure and further development of drug-resistant bacteria. The FDC format is specifically designed to make medication protocols easier to follow consistently. Using a fixed-dose combination is intended to make it simpler for patients to stick to a treatment plan.

Regulatory References

  1. About the U.S. National Library of Medicine

What side effects are possible with Myrin?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

The safety profile for the Fixed-Dose Combination (FDC) of Rifampicin, Isoniazid, Pyrazinamide, and Ethambutol hydrochloride is strictly defined by government regulatory documents, focusing on potential adverse reactions and usage constraints.

Officially Documented Adverse Reactions

Adverse events are categorized by frequency and the body system affected, as documented in regulatory prescribing information:

Frequency Classification System-Organ Class Examples of Documented Reactions
Common Hepatobiliary Disorders Elevated liver enzymes, Arthralgia (joint pain), Hyperuricemia, Peripheral Neuropathy.
Rare Eye Disorders Optic Neuritis (vision disturbances, potential for blindness).
Rare Blood and Lymphatic Thrombocytopenia (low platelet count), Fatal Hepatitis.
Not Known Skin and Subcutaneous Severe Cutaneous Adverse Reactions (SCARs), such as SJS, TEN, and DRESS.

Serious Safety Considerations

Fatal Hepatitis and Optic Neuritis are explicitly documented as serious adverse reactions that require active monitoring. Other severe reactions include acute Hypersensitivity Syndromes and Acute Renal Failure.

Safety-Related Restrictions

Regulatory documents highlight safety limitations based on pre-existing conditions and patient populations:

  • Contraindications: The FDC is restricted for use in individuals with Acute Liver Disease, Severe Hepatic Impairment, Pre-existing Optic Neuritis, or Acute Gout.
  • Population Notes: Older adults (age 50) have an increased risk of severe hepatic problems. The medication is generally not recommended for children under 8 years due to difficulties in monitoring Ethambutol-related ocular toxicity.
  • Dosing Patterns: Intermittent dosing is noted to increase the risk of severe hypersensitivity reactions and thrombocytopenia.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and When to Seek Help

Overdose with Myrin (Pristinamycin) is generally managed by observing for anticipated extensions of known side effects, which primarily affect the gastrointestinal system.

Overdose Scope

Overdose scope Regulatory-Derived Information
Documented overdose presentations Primarily includes pronounced gastrointestinal disturbances (e.g., nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea) and potential worsening of dermatological reactions (e.g., rash).
Dose-related or exposure-related factors Overdose risk is significantly increased when Myrin is combined with Vitamin K Antagonists (VKAs), such as Fluindione, due to a drug-drug interaction that can lead to an increase in the anticoagulant’s effect, potentially causing bleeding and serious complications.
Clinical manifestations of overdose The main manifestations are typically intensified gastrointestinal distress. For VKA-related overdose, manifestations include signs of bleeding, which can be severe.

Required Emergency Actions

Emergency Action Status Required Procedural Instruction
When immediate medical help is required Immediate medical attention is required for any signs of allergic reactions (e.g., swelling of the face or throat, difficulty breathing, anaphylactic shock) or severe gastrointestinal symptoms (e.g., persistent vomiting or bloody diarrhoea). Urgent medical consultation is mandatory in cases of known or suspected ingestion of an excessive amount, particularly if the patient is also taking anticoagulant medication, due to the high risk of serious haemorrhage.

Connection to the overall overdose profile

The regulatory profile for Myrin overdose highlights that isolated, excessive exposure often results in the exaggeration of common gastrointestinal complaints, which usually require only supportive measures. However, a distinct and more serious overdose risk exists for patients concurrently treated with Vitamin K Antagonists, where the drug interaction, rather than the Myrin dose itself, leads to a critical overdose of the anticoagulant, presenting with life-threatening bleeding. Immediate medical assessment is therefore critical in any suspected case, especially for patients on anticoagulant therapy.

Therapeutic Uses of Myrin

Myrin may be part of symptomatic management in combination therapy for tuberculosis. This medication is applied across domains where additional symptomatic support is needed, primarily for managing active tuberculosis (TB) disease. It plays a role in addressing conditions associated with acute or disruptive episodes, including those presenting with symptoms related to systemic imbalance and heightened physiological activity.


Management of Active Tuberculosis Infection

Myrin is primarily applied in clinical settings that involve active TB, a condition characterized by periods of heightened symptoms caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The medication is commonly used as part of a multi-drug regimen to assist with managing conditions associated with acute or disruptive episodes and supports patients during episodes of heightened discomfort.


Symptomatic Support and Relief

The drug is relevant in situations involving certain distressing symptoms linked to the infection, such as persistent coughing, fever, and fatigue. It assists with managing these symptom clusters that may become intense or disruptive, contributing to improved day-to-day comfort and helps maintain a sense of stability when symptoms are more noticeable.


Supportive Role in Functional Stability

Myrin is applied across conditions where symptoms may intensify temporarily, assisting with maintaining functional stability during these challenging phases.

General Comfort Note Myrin assists with managing symptoms related to systemic imbalance, contributing to improved comfort during periods of heightened symptoms.

Regulatory References

  1. NIH Clinical Info on Pyrazinamide

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Myrin is a four-drug fixed-dose combination and is governed by strict population eligibility rules derived from government regulatory labeling, focusing on specific organ functions and patient demographics.

Contraindicated Populations

Use is explicitly prohibited in patients with:

  • Acute liver disease or severe liver impairment.
  • Optic neuritis (due to the Ethambutol component).
  • Acute gout or acute gouty arthritis (due to the Pyrazinamide component).
  • Known hypersensitivity to any of its active components.
  • Any condition preventing the patient from appreciating and reporting visual changes (e.g., young children or mental deficiency), which makes essential visual monitoring impossible.

Restricted and Conditional Use

The medicine is not recommended for children under 8 years of age and, in some labels, for those under 13, as efficacy may not be established and visual monitoring is difficult. The FDC tablet is not suitable for patients with a body weight below 30 kg. Individuals with chronic liver disease or severe renal impairment require caution and close monitoring. The risk of hepatotoxicity is noted to be more common in older adults (over 50 years). Pregnant patients are permitted to use the medicine but require concurrent Pyridoxine (Vitamin B6) supplementation.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with Other Medicines and Products

The official regulatory documentation for Myrin, a Fixed-Dose Combination containing Rifampicin, Isoniazid, Pyrazinamide, and Ethambutol hydrochloride, establishes several significant interaction constraints. These primarily stem from the potent metabolic effects of the Rifampicin and Isoniazid components.

Pharmacokinetic and Pharmacodynamic Interactions

Rifampicin is a documented potent inducer of multiple Cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzymes (e.g., CYP3A4, CYP2C9), accelerating the clearance of many co-administered drugs. This effect reduces the plasma concentration of substances like oral contraceptives, anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin), and corticosteroids.

Isoniazid is a documented enzyme inhibitor, resulting in increased exposure and potential toxicity of drugs such as Phenytoin and Carbamazepine.

Formal Contraindications exist for co-administration with certain narrow therapeutic index CYP3A4 substrates, including Voriconazole and specific HIV Protease Inhibitors, due to the risk of treatment failure from critically low exposure.

Timing and Substance Restrictions

Aluminum-containing antacids reduce the absorption of the Ethambutol component; regulatory instructions mandate that these antacids be administered at least 4 hours after Myrin. Concomitant use of alcohol (ethanol) is restricted due to the documented, significantly increased risk of hepatotoxicity associated with Isoniazid and Pyrazinamide. Patients with pre-existing hepatic impairment are noted to be at a heightened risk for severe toxicity resulting from reduced clearance of the Isoniazid and Pyrazinamide components.

Mechanism of Action

Myrin, an established synonym for Rifampicin, selectively targets bacterial DNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RNAP) in susceptible microorganisms, particularly Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The molecule functions as a non-competitive inhibitor by binding to a specific pocket on the beta-subunit of the microbial RNAP.

This interaction is allosteric, yet it sterically occludes the synthesis of the RNA backbone. Mechanistically, Myrin physically blocks the elongation process of the nascent RNA transcript, specifically preventing the synthesis of the second or third phosphodiester bond. This molecular mechanism interrupts the intracellular pathway of transcription in the target bacterium, thereby blocking the subsequent production of all essential bacterial proteins. The downstream cascade is a systemic arrest of bacterial protein synthesis and growth, leading to the suppression of microbial replication and propagation at the system-level of a host organism.

Dosage and Administration Information

How Myrin is Used: Official Administration Guidelines

Myrin is a Fixed-Dose Combination (FDC) oral tablet containing four antitubercular agents, and its use is strictly confined to the initial, intensive phase of the standard treatment protocol. This initial phase typically involves continuous daily use and lasts for a period of two months.


Dosing and Frequency

The daily dose is determined by the patient's current body weight, as outlined in official prescribing information. Patients are divided into weight bands, and the dose is prescribed as a specific number of tablets taken once daily.

Patient Body Weight (kg) Daily Dose (Number of Tablets)
30–39 kg 2 tablets
40–54 kg 3 tablets
55–70 kg 4 tablets
>70 kg 5 tablets

Administration Context

Myrin is taken on an empty stomach to ensure proper absorption of the active components, as absorption can be reduced when taken with food. Standard guidelines specify taking the dose at least one hour before or two hours after a meal. The entire daily dose is swallowed whole as a single oral intake.

Procedural and Duration Constraints

Due to the fixed ratio of the components, this formulation is generally not recommended for children weighing below 30 kg, as the dose cannot be adjusted to meet lower weight requirements. The entire course of the initial 2-month phase should be completed without interruption. Following this fixed duration, patients must transition to a different drug regimen for the subsequent continuation phase.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research Evidence / Overview of Studies for Myrin

Evidence from Randomized Trials for Active TB Disease

The primary research for this four-drug combination, which includes Myrin, has centered on the standard initial, intensive phase of treatment for drug-susceptible active tuberculosis (TB) disease. The research examined this regimen as the standard initial phase treatment for drug-susceptible active tuberculosis. Most of the core data comes from Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) and comprehensive systematic reviews that combine findings from many different studies. These studies were designed to monitor outcomes that describe bacteriological status.

Researchers primarily examined bacteriological outcomes, focusing on the measurement of whether the TB bacteria could still be found in patient samples, such as a sputum culture, after a defined period. The studies also monitored measured outcomes over the full six-month course, including treatment completion rates in the studied groups. This body of evidence is considered High-level evidence for the underlying four-drug regimen in the context of TB treatment.

Studies Comparing FDC to Separate Drug Formulations

A significant area of research focused specifically on the Fixed-Dose Combination (FDC) format of Myrin compared to the traditional practice of taking the four component drugs as four separate pills. Studies explored whether consolidating the regimen into a single tablet was associated with specific outcomes related to treatment behavior and adherence.

Findings describe patterns where using the single-pill FDC format was associated with higher patient adherence rates and fewer treatment interruptions across the observed populations. Furthermore, certain research explored whether the FDC tablet delivered levels of drug absorption (bioavailability) that were similar to those observed when taking the four drugs individually.

What Research Gaps and Uncertainties Remain

One inherent limitation of the FDC format is the lack of individual dose flexibility. Since the drugs are fixed in one tablet, there is limited information for patients who may require a lower dose of one component due to factors like body weight or reduced organ function. This structural limitation indicates that data for individual dose adjustments are limited, meaning results apply most directly to the populations studied under the standard dosing regimen. Additionally, limited information is available for certain groups, such as older patients or patients with severe pre-existing organ dysfunction, and evidence certainty varies for these specific cohorts.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Myrin (FAQ)

Q: Is Myrin considered a 'first-line' medicine for the condition it treats?

Official guidelines, including those from the World Health Organisation, classify the components found in Myrin as first-line drugs for the condition it treats. This Fixed-Dose Combination (FDC) is specifically indicated for the initial, intensive phase of tuberculosis treatment.

Q: Is it normal for Myrin to cause a reddish-orange discoloration of the urine, sweat, or tears?

Yes, the rifampicin component of this medicine commonly causes a harmless red-orange discoloration of bodily fluids such as urine, sweat, and tears. Official product information notes this expected change and indicates that it has the potential to permanently stain soft contact lenses and clothing.

Q: Does Myrin typically cause fatigue or general tiredness?

The components in Myrin have been associated with reports of general fatigue or feelings of malaise (discomfort). This tiredness is noted as a possible undesirable effect, along with other general or neurological changes listed in the official product information.

Q: Is nausea, vomiting, or stomach discomfort a frequent side effect of Myrin?

Yes, gastrointestinal disturbances are commonly reported adverse effects associated with the components in Myrin. These disturbances can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal discomfort, as documented in regulatory guidelines.

Q: Can Myrin interact with over-the-counter pain relievers like Tylenol or ibuprofen?

Regulatory documents advise caution when combining Myrin with other medications. They note that the risk of liver damage is a consideration when the rifampicin component is co-administered with Acetaminophen (Tylenol). Caution is generally advised for any co-administered drug due to Myrin’s potent metabolic effects.

Q: Are there any specific vitamins or supplements known to interact with Myrin?

Official information mentions that the ethambutol component may interfere with the absorption of essential minerals like copper and zinc, indicating that mineral supplements should be taken hours apart. Furthermore, Pyridoxine (Vitamin B6) supplementation is noted to be used concurrently for pregnant patients using Myrin due to the isoniazid component.

Q: Does Myrin interact with common medicines used to treat diabetes or high blood pressure?

Yes. The rifampicin component is a strong enzyme inducer that can affect the concentration of many co-administered drugs. This effect may reduce the effectiveness of medicines used to manage diabetes mellitus or certain corticosteroids. Official documentation states that close medical monitoring of blood sugar levels is often necessary during this co-administration.

Q: Are there certain types of food that should be avoided when taking Myrin?

Official product information indicates that the isoniazid component of Myrin may interact with certain foods containing high levels of tyramine or histamine. These substances are typically found in aged products like certain cheeses, cured meats, and some types of fish.

Q: Is Myrin still effective if a person has previously had treatment for their condition?

Yes, according to official treatment guidelines, this Fixed-Dose Combination is indicated for the intensive phase treatment of both new and re-treatment cases of the condition. This is provided the causative bacteria are susceptible to the drugs.

Q: What are the general risks associated with stopping Myrin earlier than directed by a doctor?

Official treatment guidelines describe potential risks associated with stopping anti-tuberculosis treatment prematurely. These risks include treatment failure, relapse of the disease, and the acquired development of drug resistance by the bacteria, which can make future treatment much more difficult.

Q: What steps should be taken if a dose of Myrin is accidentally missed?

Regulatory guidance describes two general approaches if a dose is missed: either taking it as soon as possible, or skipping it if it is nearly time for the next scheduled dose. The guidance notes that patients should avoid doubling up to prevent higher concentrations. Missing doses can increase the risk of side effects and treatment failure.

Q: Does Myrin affect the ability to safely drive or operate heavy machinery?

The components of Myrin have been associated with central nervous system (CNS) effects, including dizziness, vision changes, and mental health issues. Official product information states that if a patient experiences any such side effects, their ability to safely drive or operate machinery may be impaired.

Q: Is Myrin used to prevent the recurrence of the condition it treats?

Myrin is used for the initial phase of treatment to rapidly reduce the number of bacteria. The subsequent continuation phase of treatment is intended to ensure that the patient is fully cured and does not relapse after completion of the entire, prescribed course.

Q: What is the difference between the 'initial phase' and 'continuation phase' of treatment mentioned in Myrin documents?

Treatment is a multi-stage process. The initial phase (typically 2 months) uses four drugs, including Myrin, to rapidly kill bacteria. The continuation phase (typically 4-7 months) generally uses a reduced number of drugs to eliminate remaining bacteria and prevent recurrence.

How should Myrin be stored and disposed of?

Myrin (Rifampicin, Isoniazid, Pyrazinamide, Ethambutol FDC) must be stored under specific conditions to maintain its potency as an antitubercular agent. The medicine should be stored at room temperature, generally not exceeding 25 C or 30 C in some regions.

Storage Requirements

The tablets must be protected from light and stored in a dry place [1.5]. It is mandatory to keep the medicine in its original, tightly closed container and strictly out of the reach of children [1.4], [3.7]. The product must be kept from freezing and should not be used past its labeled expiration date [3.7].

Disposal Instructions

Official disposal guidance recommends using a drug take-back program or specialized mail-back envelope for safe disposal [2.6]. Do not flush the medicine down the toilet or pour it down a sink [2.6]. If take-back options are unavailable, the drug may be discarded in the household trash after being mixed with an unappealing substance (like used coffee grounds or dirt) and sealed in a container [2.4].

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

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