Tuberculosis (TB) medication can cause short-term side effects, such as loss of appetite, fever, and fatigue. Long-term side effects can include lung dysfunction and issues with the digestive system.

There are several types of medication that can treat TB. However, a person may experience several side effects.

It is important to discuss the possible side effects with a doctor before beginning the treatment.

This article looks at the side effects of TB medication, how long side effects typically last, what a person can do to manage side effects, and anything a person should avoid while taking TB medication.

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There are several short-term side effects that a person may experience while taking TB medication.

A 2017 studyTrusted Source that looked at multidrug-resistant TB in South Korea suggests that the most common short-term side effects of TB medication are issues with the digestive system. These can include:

  • diarrhea
  • nausea
  • vomiting

Other possible short-term side effects of TB medication can include:

  • dizziness
  • flu-like symptoms
  • a “pins and needles” feeling
  • vision changes
  • itchiness
  • skin rash
  • orange-colored urine
  • jaundice in rare cases

Research published in 2020Trusted Sourcesuggests that another short-term side effect of TB medication is drug-induced liver injury (DILI). This adverse effect can lead to liver damage but typically resolves when a person stops taking TB medication.

A person should report any short-term side effects of TB medication to a healthcare professional. Short-term side effects typically resolve after a person stops taking TB medication, but it is important to continue taking the medication until a doctor advises otherwise.

Allergic reactions are also possible. If a person experiences symptoms of an allergic reaction or anaphylaxis after taking TB medication, they should seek immediate medical help.

Anaphylaxis: Symptoms and what to do

Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that can be life threatening. The symptoms develop suddenly and include:

  • hives
  • swelling of the face or mouth
  • wheezing
  • fast, shallow breathing
  • a fast heart rate
  • clammy skin
  • anxiety or confusion
  • dizziness
  • vomiting
  • blue or white lips
  • fainting or loss of consciousness

If someone has these symptoms:

  1. Check whether they are carrying an epinephrine pen. If they are, follow the instructions on the side of the pen to use it.
  2. Dial 911 or the number of the nearest emergency department.
  3. Assist the person in moving from a sitting position to lying down. If they have vomited, turn them onto their side.
  4. Stay with them until the emergency services arrive.

Some people may need more than one epinephrine injection. If the symptoms do not improve in 5 to 15 minutes, or they come back, use a second pen if the person has one.

Some different research from 2020 suggests that one long-term side effect of taking TB medication, particularly for an extended period of time, is a negative effect on human gut microbiota.

Gut microbiota is the array of microorganisms, such as bacteria and viruses, in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. These microorganisms have several vital rolesTrusted Source, including regulating the immune system, helping the body fight off disease, and storing energy.

A disturbance to gut microbiota can lead to GI tract symptoms such as:

  • diarrhea
  • nausea
  • abdominal pain
  • constipation

It may also lead to other health conditions such as:

  • high cholesterol
  • diabetes
  • obesity

A 2023 articleTrusted Source reports that previous research suggests approximately 20% to 50% of people will experience lung impairment after taking TB medication. This can lead to long-term symptoms such as fatigue and breathlessness.

The same article suggests other long-term side effects of TB medication can include:

  • depression
  • anxiety
  • insomnia

A person can work with their doctor to find ways to manage the long-term side effects of TB medication. The treatments will depend on which side effects the individual experiences.

The length of time that side effects from TB medication may last can be different for each person. It can also depend on which side effects occur.

For example, nausea and vomiting can last for a few weeks after a person begins taking the medication.

If a person experiences long-term side effects, these can continue for a variable length of time even after a person stops taking TB medication.

A 2022 Chinese study researched risk factors and biomarkers in smokers and nonsmokers that increase post-TB-related lung damage. Results suggest that 27.9% of people with reduced lung function from taking TB medication will still experience symptoms 3 years after stopping treatment.

A 2023 research review and clinical statementTrusted Source suggests that once a person has finished the course of TB medication, they should attend follow-up appointments with a healthcare professional every 6 months for up to 2 years to monitor side effects.

The individual can work with their doctor to create a suitable treatment plan to manage the side effects.

Learn about how long TB lasts.

If a person experiences side effects from TB medication, it is important to speak with a healthcare professional to understand any support or treatments available to help them manage their symptoms.

A healthcare professional may recommendTrusted Source stopping taking TB medications if a person experiences serious side effects.

They may recommend taking vitamin B6 to help with the tingling sensation in the hands and feet. Rest and drinking plenty of fluids can help symptoms such as dizziness.

Antihistamines or topical steroids may be beneficialTrusted Source for managing itchiness.

A healthcare professional may also recommend contacting a state or local TB program to help manage side effects of TB medication.

There are several factors that may lead to an interaction with TB medication and new or worsening side effects. A person taking TB medication should try to avoidTrusted Source:

  • drinking alcohol
  • eating foods that contain tyramine and histamine, such as:
    • matured cheese
    • tuna
    • mackerel
    • sauerkraut
    • cured meats
  • starting any new medications without consulting a healthcare professional

TB medications may prevent contraceptive pills and implants from working during the duration of the treatment. A person should consider using other barrier methods alongside their regular contraception during this time.

It is important to let a medical professional know if a person is or potentially may be pregnant.

What happens after 2 months of TB treatment?

Most TB medication treatments last for around 6 months. After 2 months, a healthcare professional may need to make changes to the treatment plan, such as taking different antibiotics.

How long does TB medication take to take effect?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)Trusted Source, a person may start to feel the effects of the TB medication working after only a few weeks.

However, it typically takes months for TB medication to eliminate all TB bacteria. Therefore, a person must complete the full course of TB medication unless a healthcare professional instructs them otherwise.

What are the signs that TB medication is working?

Some signs that TB medication may be working typically include a reduction of TB symptoms. It is important to continue taking the medication as a doctor instructs, even if they start to feel better.

Can TB medication cause leg pain?

A person taking TB medication may experience leg pain.

A 2021 case report suggests that TB medication may lead to drug-induced myopathy. This is dysfunction of the muscles, including fatigue, weakness, and pain. The dysfunction symptoms may affect the legs.

Can TB medication cause joint pain?

Some 2017 researchTrusted Source suggests that TB medication can lead to pain, inflammation, and stiffness in the joints.

There are several short- and long-term side effects of taking TB medication. Short-term side effects can include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, flu-like symptoms, and more.

Long-term side effects can include GI tract symptoms and lung problems.

If a person experiences side effects while taking TB medication, they should speak with a healthcare professional as early as possible. If they experience an allergic reaction or anaphylaxis, they should seek immediate medical help.