12 Weeks Directly Observed Therapy (Dot) Regimen for Latent Tuberculosis (TB) Infection

What Is Latent Tuberculosis Infection (LTBI)?

Persons with latent TB infection are not infectious and cannot spread TB infection to others. They are usually well and do not have symptoms. They are infected with M. tuberculosis germs, but do not have the TB disease. They may develop TB disease if they do not receive treatment for LTBI.

LTBI may be diagnosed through a blood test commonly called Quantiferon, or a skin test commonly called PPD (Purified Protein Derivative).

Why Take Treatment For LTBI?

• TB germs are in your body.
• Prescribed medications may be the only way to kill the TB germs in your body.
• If the germs stay in your body and make you sick:
• You may spread TB germs.
• You will need to stay away from work until you cannot spread the disease to others.
• You may be asked to leave the UAE and your visa may not be renewed (non-UAE Nationals only).

What Is the 12-dose Regimen?

It is a 12-week dosed regimen of Rifapentine and Isoniazid given once weekly for 12 weeks at our clinic, to treat persons with LTBI to prevent TB disease.

Isoniazid may cause tingling or numbness in your hands and feet. Your doctor may add Vitamin B6 to your treatment plan to prevent this side effect.

Rifapentine may cause your urine, saliva, tears or sweat to appear an orange-red color. This is normal. To avoid staining during treatment, stop wearing your contact lenses and take your dentures out whenever possible. This medication may also cause inflammation of your liver. Close monitoring is required.

While on This Medication:

• Tell your doctor or nurse if you have questions or concerns about the medication.
• Discuss any alcohol use with your doctor. Alcohol use may cause side effects on this regimen.
• It is very important to tell your doctor about all other medications you are currently taking. For women, this medication may interfere with hormone-based birth control pills.
• Be sure to tell your other doctors that you are being treated for LTBI.
• Some people find that the medications affect them less when taken with food.
• The 12-week dosed regimen is not recommended for pregnant women or persons with any immune disorder. If you become pregnant, think you might be pregnant or are immunocompromised, tell your doctor or nurse right away.

It Is Important to Follow All Instructions given by Your Doctor or Nurse:

• Take the pills on the correct date of the week.
• Take the correct number of pills.
• Swallow pills for each dose within five to ten minutes.
• Keep the medicine at room temperature.
• Store the medicine away from children.

Stop and Call Your Tb Doctor or Nurse Right Away If You Have Any of the Following Side Effects:

• Dizzy or lightheaded when sitting, standing or lying down.
• Head or body aches.
• A decreased appetite or no appetite for food.
• Nausea or vomiting.
• Stomach upset or stomach cramps.
• Severe tiredness or weakness.
• Fevers or chills.
• Brown, tea-colored or cola-colored urine.
• Yellowing skin or eyes.
• Skin rash or itching.
• Bruises or red and purple spots on your skin that you cannot explain.
• Easy bleeding.
• Shortness of breath.
• Tingling or numbness in your hands or legs.

Please note: It is normal if your urine, saliva, or tears become orange-colored. In case of any inquiries please contact the following clinics at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi: Infectious Diseases Clinic: 800 8 CCAD (2223) Ext: 68090 Occupational Health Clinic: 800 8 CCAD (2223) Ext: 68056