Adverse anti-tuberculosis drug events and their management

It is currently possible to cure TB, but multiple drugs are required over a long term, and both of these factors produce adverse drug reactions (ADRs). ADRs can be caused by all anti-TB drugs but are much more frequent with second-line drugs. Fortunately, most anti-TB ADRs are mild or moderate and do not always require removal of the offending drug. However, some ADRs can be severe or potentially life-threatening, requiring urgent clinical interventions, including removal of the suspected drug(s). Early detection and adequate management of ADRs is essential for a good TB treatment outcome. This chapter reviews the majority of the possible ADRs to anti-TB drugs. In addition, practical recommendations to identify the possible drug(s) involved in the different reactions and the most adequate management in each situation are outlined.