A combination four antibiotics-isoniazid,
rifampin, pyrazinamide, and ethambutol, the most effective drugs
against TB-is prescribed for six to nine months. After two
months the treatment is usually reduced to only isoniazid and
rifampin. The antibiotics must be taken for the full term
prescribed, both to cure the infection and to prevent the
development of drug-resistant TB strains.
Patients should get plenty of rest
until symptoms subside.
TB sufferers should sneeze or cough
into disposable tissues to prevent the spread of infection.
Hospitalization in an isolation room
with adequate ventilation may be necessary to prevent the spread
of TB until the infection has been brought under control.
Surgery to remove damaged lung
tissue may be performed in advanced cases of drug-resistant TB.
