Public Health Agency of Canada / Agence de santé public du Canada
Skip first menu Skip all menus Français Contact Us Help Search Canada Site
Home Centers & Labs Publications Guidelines A-Z Index
Check the help on Web Accessibility features Child Health Adult Health Seniors Health Surveillance Health Canada
Public Health Agency of Canada
Home : Infectious Diseases : Tuberculosis Prevention & Control : Tuberculosis Fact Sheet : Treatment of TB Infection

Treatment of TB Infection

What should I do if I have TB infection?

Your doctor may recommend drug(s) to reduce the chances of TB infection progressing to TB disease. Taking the antibiotic isoniazid (INH) for 9 to 12 months protects you from developing TB disease by more than 90%. Your doctor can tell you about other antibiotics that can also be used to treat TB infection. It is important to take all your medication as prescribed by your doctor.

Is the treatment safe?

Most people complete the treatment without problems, but these drugs may harm the liver.

Stop your medication and see your doctor immediately if you have any of these symptoms:

  • loss of appetite
  • brown or dark urine
  • feel sick to your stomach
  • yellowish skin or eyes
  • rash
  • stomach pain or discomfort
  • itching
  • fever

People who drink heavily or have hepatitis may already have weak livers. Your doctor can order a blood test to see if your liver has been affected. If you develop liver problems, stopping the medication will allow the liver to heal itself. It is always best not to drink alcohol if you are taking TB drugs.

PDF Version PDF

[Tuberculosis FACT SHEET - Index]

Last Updated: 2004-06-22 Top
Important Notices