Tuberculosis (TB) is a serious infection that affects the lungs and sometimes other parts of the body. Treating TB requires taking a combination of medicines for several months. These medicines are very effective, but like all strong medicines, they can sometimes cause side effects. Understanding these side effects is important so you can recognise them early and get the right help.
If you are taking TB medicines and need guidance quickly, Hope Plus can connect you to a licensed healthcare provider for a consultation in minutes. They can help assess side effects, adjust your treatment safely, and give advice on how to feel better. You can learn more here: Hope Plus.
Key Takeaways
- TB treatment can cause side effects, ranging from mild rashes to serious liver problems.
- Most side effects can be managed safely if identified early.
- Never stop TB medicines on your own without guidance from a healthcare provider.
- Certain side effects need urgent medical attention, such as jaundice, severe rashes, or vision changes.
- Supportive treatments like small meals, painkillers, or vitamin supplements can help reduce discomfort.
Common Side Effects of Anti-TB Medicines
| Medicine | Common Side Effects |
|---|---|
| Isoniazid | Liver inflammation (hepatitis), tingling or burning in the feet and hands (peripheral neuropathy) |
| Rifampicin | Flu-like symptoms, skin rashes, liver problems, reddish-brown urine |
| Pyrazinamide | Joint pains, liver inflammation |
| Ethambutol | Vision changes, problems with colour perception |
| Moxifloxacin | Tendon pain, joint aches, stomach upset, blood in urine |
How Side Effects Are Managed
Healthcare providers in Uganda monitor side effects carefully and take the following steps depending on your symptoms:
Common and Mild Side Effects
- Low appetite, nausea, or stomach pain: Medicines like Pyrazinamide or Rifampicin may cause this. Taking them with a small meal or just before bed can help.
- Joint pains: Often caused by Pyrazinamide. Painkillers such as Paracetamol or Ibuprofen are used to relieve discomfort.
- Burning sensation in the feet: Caused by Isoniazid. Doctors give Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine) to reduce this sensation.
- Orange or red urine: Caused by Rifampicin. This is harmless, but you should be reassured by a healthcare provider.
- Skin rashes: Most TB drugs can cause mild rashes. Antihistamines like chlorpheniramine and moisturisers are used. Mild rashes do not usually require stopping treatment.
Serious Side Effects That Need Immediate Care
- Hearing problems, dizziness, or vertigo: Streptomycin can cause these. The drug is stopped and replaced with another TB medicine like Ethambutol.
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes): Can be caused by Isoniazid, Rifampicin, or Pyrazinamide. TB medicines are stopped immediately, and liver function is monitored. Medicines may be reintroduced slowly under supervision.
- Severe allergic reactions: High fever, severe rashes, or blistering may indicate a dangerous reaction. All TB medicines may be stopped and supportive care given. Referral to a specialist is required.
- Vision problems: Ethambutol can affect eyesight. If this occurs, it is stopped and replaced with another TB medicine.
Stepwise Approach to Severe Side Effects
- Stop all TB medicines immediately if the reaction is severe.
- Provide supportive care for symptoms (e.g., hydration, pain relief).
- Once symptoms improve, medicines may be reintroduced one at a time, starting with the least likely to cause problems.
- Avoid reintroducing the drug that caused the severe reaction.
TB Treatment Completion
Even after finishing TB treatment, monitoring continues. Sometimes, sputum or culture results may be missing from the records. Healthcare providers may check results again to ensure the infection is fully treated.
FAQ: Anti-TB Drugs Side Effects
1. Can I continue taking my TB medicines if I have mild side effects?
Yes, mild side effects like mild rashes or stomach discomfort are often managed without stopping treatment, but always inform your healthcare provider.
2. What should I do if I notice yellowing of my eyes or skin?
This could indicate liver problems. Stop the medicines and contact a healthcare provider immediately.
3. Is it normal for my urine to turn reddish-orange?
Yes, this is a harmless effect of Rifampicin. It does not damage your kidneys or bladder.
4. Can TB medicines affect my vision?
Ethambutol can affect eyesight and colour vision. If you notice changes, your doctor may stop it and replace it with another medicine.
5. How can I reduce burning or tingling in my feet from Isoniazid?
Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine) is given to reduce this side effect.
6. Can joint pains from TB medicines be treated?
Yes, painkillers like Paracetamol or Ibuprofen can help relieve joint pains caused by Pyrazinamide.
7. Should I ever stop TB treatment on my own?
No. Stopping treatment on your own can make TB harder to treat and lead to drug resistance. Always work with your healthcare provider.
