|  | Conditions Treatments | Respiratory Disorders

Inactive Tuberculosis Treatment

Tuberculosis is an illness caused by the tuberculosis bacteria. It generally starts in the lungs. Inactive tuberculosis means that the bacteria is present in the lungs but is not making you sick and cannot be spread to others. Since it is asymptomatic, it is discovered through a PDD test--the injection of a substance into your skin which causes a raised, irritated bump if the tuberculosis bacteria is present in your body. If the bacteria is present, a chest X-ray is usually required to determine if the TB is active or inactive.

  1. Isoniazid

    • The usual course of treatment for inactive tuberculosis is to take an antibiotic calld Isoniazid, also called isonicotinyl hydrazine (INH), for between six and nine months. Isoniazid is designed to help kill the tuberculosis bacteria in the body, so the inactive TB will die before it becomes active. INH is usually administered in pill form, and you must take one dose of the pill each day. It is essential to complete the entire course of treatment to kill all of the tuberculosis bacteria in the body, otherwise you will always be in danger of contracting active TB.

    Side Effects and Risks

    • Isoniazid should not be combined with alcohol or acetaminophen (Tylenol). When combined, INH and alcohol or Tylenol can cause severe liver damage. Other side effects of taking INH include a rash or stomach upset, including nausea and vomiting. Discuss possible side effects and drug interactions with your doctor when you are prescribed Isoniazid.

    Monitoring

    • Inactive TB should be closely monitored to ensure that it does not develop into active TB and that the Isoniazid is working. Many doctors require you to come in for monthly visits, where they prescribe the Isoniazid one month at a time. This allows doctors to monitor both the TB and the side effects of the medication. Even after taking the medicine for the recommended six to nine months, it is possible for active TB to develop in some cases since some bacteria are resistent to the medication. To ensure the bacteria doesn't develop into active TB, stay healthy, eat well and visit your doctor regularly for checkups. In addition, be aware of some of the common symptoms of active TB, including a cough, feelings of fatigue, sweating, fever or unexplained weight loss.

Respiratory Disorders - Related Articles