Treatment for tuberculosis (TB)

Drug Therapy

The most common treatment for TB involves a combination of several antibiotics taken for at least six months. The most commonly used drugs include isoniazid, rifampin, ethambutol, and pyrazinamide. For drug-resistant TB, additional medications may be required.

Directly Observed Therapy (DOT)

To ensure adherence to the treatment regimen and reduce the risk of drug resistance, healthcare providers may implement DOT, where patients receive their medications under supervision.

Monitoring

Throughout the treatment period, patients undergo regular monitoring to assess treatment response and detect any adverse effects. This may include clinical evaluations, sputum tests, and imaging studies.

Adherence Support

Since TB treatment requires long-term antibiotic therapy, adherence to the prescribed regimen is critical for successful outcomes. Healthcare providers often provide support and education to help patients adhere to their treatment plan.

Nutritional Support

Adequate nutrition is essential for TB patients to support their immune system and aid in recovery. Healthcare providers may recommend a balanced diet and may provide nutritional support if needed.

Isolation

In some cases, particularly for drug-resistant TB or when the patient poses a risk of spreading the infection, isolation measures may be necessary until the patient is no longer contagious.

Contact Tracing

Patients with active TB may have exposed others to the bacteria. Healthcare providers conduct contact tracing to identify individuals who may have been exposed to TB and offer testing and treatment as needed.