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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Can TB Medication Be Stopped In Between While Awaiting Test Results?

Hi My doctor has prescribed Ethambutol Hydrochloride 800mg and Isoniazid 300 mg daily to my 77 year old mother in law without having any test done for TB. She has already taken this medicine for eight days. I have been told that TB medicines can not be stopped once started. Also as parallel a TB test has been ordered and report will be received in about five days from now. I am confused whether it is advisable to continue this medicine for another five days or to stop this medicine and tell the doctor that it has been stopped.
Mon, 17 Aug 2015
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Psychiatrist,  's  Response
Hi Sir/Madam.

Welcome to HCM.

I understand your concern.

TB medications should not be stopped abruptly.

This can lead to flare up of the disease activity.

The drugs are usually prescribed for 6-9 months , not just for 5-8 days.

Continue medications until tests results arrive.

Once the results are positive decide the further duration of the treatment after consulting your pulmonologist.

If active TB is detected then 6-9 months has to be instituted without fail.

Post your further queries if any.

Thank you.
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Can TB Medication Be Stopped In Between While Awaiting Test Results?

Hi Sir/Madam. Welcome to HCM. I understand your concern. TB medications should not be stopped abruptly. This can lead to flare up of the disease activity. The drugs are usually prescribed for 6-9 months , not just for 5-8 days. Continue medications until tests results arrive. Once the results are positive decide the further duration of the treatment after consulting your pulmonologist. If active TB is detected then 6-9 months has to be instituted without fail. Post your further queries if any. Thank you.