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Treatment Course for Tuberculosis

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) outlines the various treatments for tuberculosis. Treatments differ according to whether the tuberculosis is latent (inactive), active, drug-resistant or extensively drug resistant.

  1. Latent TB

    • Latent tuberculosis (TB) exists when TB bacteria are present but inactive. Standard treatment is a nine-month course of izoniazid or rifampin followed by periodic x-rays.

    Active TB

    • Active TB exists when the bacteria are infectious. Treatment is a combination of izoniazid, rifampin, pyrazinamide and ethambutol.

    Drug-Resistant TB

    • Drug-resistant TB occurs when standard drug treatments do not kill the bacteria. A cocktail of drugs may be prescribed including Rifater (which contains izoniazid, rifampin and pyrazinamide). At least four drugs are taken, depending on the resistance level.

    Extensively Drug-Resistant TB

    • Research from the Food and Drug Administration indicates that a combination of amoxicillin (clavulanate) and meropenem is effective for this rare resistance to all other treatments.

    Alternative Treatments

    • For those who wish to pursue natural options, suggested treatments include a natural diet, vitamin and mineral supplements and exposure to sunshine and heat.

    Disclaimer

    • This information is not meant to be a substitute for proper medical assessment and professional advice should always be sought for treatment of tuberculosis.

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