Medication for Tuberculosis
Tuberculosis (TB) can scar the lungs and other parts of the body, such as the kidneys, bones, or the brain. TB can even be fatal. If you know you have TB, get medical treatment. This usually involves medication. It is essential that you follow your treatment plan as instructed.
Important
Take ALL of your medication as prescribed. If you don’t, the TB may not go away and you may still be infected.
Treatment with Medication
TB infection and disease are treated with medications. You may have tests to tell which medications are right for you. You’ll have to take more than one kind of medication. Treatment may last many months. Taking your medication exactly as you are told should cure the disease. If you don’t take all your medication, your symptoms may come back.
Follow Your Treatment Plan
Follow the instructions on your prescription and any instructions your doctor gives you. Your TB won’t go away otherwise. Even if you are not having any symptoms, take all your medication.
Go for Follow-Up
If you have TB infection or disease, go for follow-up exams. Exams help to make sure any medication you’re given is working and see if the status of your TB has changed. The only way to cure TB is to take all of your medication as prescribed.
For More Information
For more information on TB, call your local health department. Also call the American Lung Association at 800-586-4872, or visit them on the Internet at www.lungusa.org.