[Adverse reactions of antituberculous agents]

Area of Science:

• Pulmonology
• Pharmacology
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• Tuberculosis and nontuberculous mycobacteriosis require long-term treatment with antituberculous agents.
• Adverse reactions to these agents can complicate treatment regimens.
• Understanding the incidence and nature of these reactions is vital for patient management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the incidence and characteristics of adverse reactions in patients undergoing treatment for tuberculosis and nontuberculous pulmonary mycobacteriosis.
• To evaluate the management strategies for patients experiencing adverse effects from antituberculous therapy.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 32 patients treated for mycobacterial lung infections.
• Documentation of adverse reactions, including side effects and abnormal laboratory findings.
• Categorization of reaction onset, duration, and severity.
• Review of treatment modifications and patient outcomes.

Main Results:

• 17 patients (53%) experienced adverse reactions to antituberculous agents.
• 15 patients (47%) reported side effects, and 9 (28%) had abnormal laboratory findings.
• Most reactions occurred within two weeks, but some prolonged side effects were noted (neurological, arthralgia, fatigue).
• 11 patients managed successfully by altering antituberculous agents; 4 improved with continued use despite side effects.
• Two patients experienced severe reactions to all agents, necessitating treatment cessation.

Conclusions:

• Adverse reactions are frequent during antituberculous treatment, necessitating vigilant monitoring.
• Management strategies involving dose adjustment, temporary cessation, or switching agents are often effective.
• A subset of patients may exhibit hypersensitivity to multiple antituberculous agents, posing significant treatment challenges.