Tuberculosis, or TB, is an illness caused by infection with the bacteria Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It normally affects the lungs, but other organ systems can also be involved. There were an estimated 12,904 cases of tuberculosis in the U.S. in 2008, according to the Centers for Disease Control. Tuberculosis can be effectively treated with a combination of drugs. The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease describes the drug regimen as lasting for a period of 6 to 12 months.
Rifampin
Rifampin is one of several antibiotics used for the treatment of TB. Drugs.com reports that rifampin is an appropriate drug for all forms of the disease. It can be given orally or by intravenous injection. The drug works by inhibiting the ability of the bacteria to replicate. Most people tolerate rifampin well, but some may experience gastrointestinal upset, dizziness or headache. Rarely, this drug may cause an allergic reaction or problems with the liver.
Ethambutol
Another antibiotic, ethambutol is used in combination with other tuberculosis medicines. It specifically targets actively growing TB organisms. The most common side effect is gastrointestinal upset. This drug can cause problems with the eyes, such as a decrease in vision, and color blindness, according to Drugs.com.
Isoniazid
An antibiotic that keeps TB bacteria from multiplying, isoniazid can be used for both treatment and prevention of tuberculosis, according to Drugs.com. The most common adverse effects involve the liver and nervous system, reports RxList.com. Liver enzymes should be periodically monitored by a physician.
Pyrazinamide
Pyrazinamide is used in combination with other antituberculosis medicines. The main side effects involve the liver. The drug also inhibits the elimination of urates from the body, potentially resulting in gouty arthritis. Baseline uric acid and liver enzyme levels should be evaluated prior to taking the drug.
