Tuberculosis is an infectious disease caused by the bacillus Mycobacterium tuberculosis. According to the World Health Organization, 2 billion people are infected with tuberculosis, and 1.8 million people died of tuberculosis-related illnesses in 2008. It is estimated that one in 10 individuals infected with the tuberculosis bacilli will develop active tuberculosis and become sick. Tuberculosis is treated with antibiotics, including isoniazid, ethambutol and rifadin.
Isoniazid
Isoniazid is an antibiotic used for the treatment of tuberculosis. In the August 2008 issue of American Family Physician, Dr. Lisa Inge notes that isoniazid is the first treatment choice for patients with latent or inactive tuberculosis infection. According to Dr. Inge, isoniazid prescribed for a duration of nine months is highly effective in killing the Mycobacterium tuberculosis bacteria responsible for tuberculosis. In compliant patients, isoniazid effectively diminished the risk of disease reactivation in 90 percent of the patients. Isoniazid is available as a pill and is taken either once daily or twice weekly. Side effects of isoniazid include hepatitis, liver problems, blurred vision and seizures.
Rifampin
Rifampin is a fundamental drug in the treatment of patients with active tuberculosis, notes the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene. Upon the identification of active tuberculosis in patients, a combination therapy including rifampin, isoniazid, pyrazinamide and ethambutol is immediately prescribed for a period of six to nine months. While rifampin is a highly effective treatment regimen for patients with active tuberculosis, reducing the treatment period from 18 months to six to nine months, rifampin can also have serious adverse effects, including liver toxicity, bleeding, allergic reactions and discoloration of bodily fluids. Furthermore, drugs such as warfarin, methadone and pregnancy contraceptive pills have negative interactions with rifampin, thereby rendering the drugs ineffective.
Ethambutol
Ethambutol is a medication used for the treatment of active tuberculosis. Ethambutol is prescribed for a period of six to nine months and is used in combination with other tuberculosis medications, including isoniazid, rifampin and pyrazinamide. Ethambutol is effective against bacterial organisms belonging to the genus Mycobacterium, including Mycobacterium tuberculosis, reports Drugs.com. Side effects commonly associated with ethambutol include vomiting, nausea, fever and chills.
