Latent TB Infection 12-Dose Regimen Fact Sheet

(PDF – 193 KB)

PATIENT INFORMATION: The 12-Dose Regimen for Latent Tuberculosis (TB) Infection

You have been diagnosed with latent TB infection.

To treat your latent TB infection, take two medicines (rifapentine and isoniazid) once a week, for 12 weeks. It is important to take all of your medication. If you miss taking your pills for the week, call your doctor/clinic right away.

These medicines are not recommended for children less than 2 years old, pregnant women or women who expect to become pregnant during treatment, or persons taking some medicine for HIV.

What is Latent TB Infection?

“TB” is short for a disease called tuberculosis. TB is spread through the air from one person to another. People who become infected with TB germs, but do not feel sick have what is called latent TB infection The reason a person does not feel sick is because the TB germs are latent, or inactive (sleeping), in their body. A person with latent TB infection has no symptoms and cannot spread TB germs to others.

Why Take Treatment for Latent TB Infection?

• A person with latent TB infection can have TB germs in their body for years before getting sick.
• Taking TB medicines is the only way to kill the TB germs in your body.
• Taking your medicines for latent TB infection can prevent you from developing TB disease in the future.

What are the Medicines You Will Take for 12 Weeks?

You will take two medicines (rifapentine and isoniazid) once a week, for twelve weeks. Your doctor may have you meet with a healthcare staff member to take your medicine, or they may tell you to take the medicine on your own.

One of the drugs, isoniazid, may cause tingling or numbness in hands and feet. Your doctor may add Vitamin B6 to your treatment plan to prevent this.

Before you start this treatment plan, tell your doctor if you are taking any other medicines, including birth control medications and medicine for HIV. Isoniazid and rifapentine may interact with certain medications, so it is very important for your doctor to know what medicines you are taking.

If you see another doctor, be sure to tell him or her that you are being treated for latent TB infection.