Tuberculosis FACT SHEETS

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Treatment of latent TB infection

What should I do if I have latent TB infection?

Your doctor may recommend that you take tuberculosis (TB) drugs to reduce the chances of your latent TB infection developing into active TB disease. For example, if you take the drug Isoniazid (INH) for nine to 12 months, it can protect you from developing TB disease. It is important that you take all your TB drugs as prescribed by your doctor.

Are TB drugs safe?

Most people can take TB drugs without having any problems. However, these drugs may harm the liver. Talk to your health-care professional (doctor or nurse) immediately if you have any of these symptoms:

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

Can I drink alcohol while taking TB drugs?

It is always best not to drink alcohol while you are taking TB drugs.

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