Medications are very important to treat tuberculosis (TB) without which the TB bacteria can rapidly spread and cause damage. Normal bacterial infections can be treated by taking antibiotics in a short period of time. But treating TB takes a long time. The type of tuberculosis medication to be used and the duration of treatment mainly depends on the age, form of TB, overall health and possible drug resistance.
The treatment and type of tuberculosis medication used to treat TB in HIV/AIDS patients, children and pregnant women differs as some drugs may cause serious side-effects. This article provides more information on what drugs are used to treat HIV/AIDS patients, children, pregnant women and their purpose.
Treating TB in HIV/AIDS patients
HIV/AIDS patients are more prone to develop active TB due to their weak immune system. Medications used to treat AIDS react with tuberculosis medications. This reduces the effectiveness of both the types of medications.
To avoid this, HIV patients are asked to stop taking antiretroviral therapy and other drugs when they are on TB medication. In some cases, certain TB drugs may be replaced by other drugs which are less likely to cause any reaction with AIDS medications. Patients are closely monitored by the doctors and any reaction to the drugs may result in a change of treatment plan and duration.
Treating TB in children and pregnant women
Most of the drugs used to treat TB in children and adults are same except for ethambutol. This drug is not prescribed for children as it may cause vision problems. In its place, streptomycin is commonly prescribed by doctors.
Isoniazid, ethambutol and rifampin are used to treat active TB in pregnant women. Pyrazinamide is generally not recommended as doctors are still unsure about its effects on the unborn baby. Apart from these, certain second line TB medications are also not recommended.
