Treating Latent TB: If you have latent TB, it means the bacteria are in your body but not causing illness, and you are not contagious. The most common treatment is a daily pill of the antibiotic isoniazid (INH) for six to nine months. This helps prevent the disease from becoming active later on.
Treating Active TB: For active TB disease, you’ll need a combination of medications over six to twelve months. The most common regimen includes isoniazid (INH), rifampin, pyrazinamide, and ethambutol. Though you may feel better in a few weeks, it’s crucial to continue the full course to avoid relapse or resistance.
Drug-Resistant TB: In cases of drug-resistant TB, the bacteria no longer respond to the usual treatments. This type of TB takes 20 to 30 months to treat and can involve more side effects.
Managing Your TB Treatment: Adhering to your treatment is essential for recovery. Missing doses or stopping the treatment too soon can lead to serious complications, including drug resistance. You may experience side effects like nausea, numbness, or jaundice, so it’s important to report any unusual symptoms to your doctor.
Tips for Taking TB Medication
- Take your medication at the same time each day.
- Use a pill organizer or calendar to track your doses.
- Ask for help from family or a healthcare worker to ensure you don’t miss any doses.
Preventing the Spread of TB If you have active TB, it will take several weeks of treatment before you’re no longer contagious. Until then:
- Take your medication as prescribed.
- Cough into a tissue and dispose of it properly.
- Avoid close contact and stay in a separate room if possible.
Completing your treatment and following your doctor’s guidance is key to stopping TB from spreading and ensuring a full recovery.
Reference:
Treating and managing tuberculosis, available at: https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/tuberculosis/treating-and-managing, last accessed on 18th December 2024.