NCIt definition : The hydrochloride salt form of ethambutol, an ethylenediamine derivative with antibacterial
activity, specifically effective against mycobacteria. Although the exact mechanism
of action of ethambutol hydrochloride is unknown, ethambutol hydrochloride inhibits
the transfer of mycolic acids into the cell wall of bacteria, which impedes bacterial
cell growth. This agent may also interfere with RNA synthesis or inhibit other cell
metabolism, thereby preventing cell multiplication and causing cell death.;