This review looked at different ways to treat children and adolescents with drug-susceptible tuberculosis. Researchers compared several short-term treatments against a standard nine-month course of isoniazid. The short-term options included a four-month course of isoniazid and rifampicin, a three-month course of isoniazid and rifapentine, and a four-month course of rifampicin alone.
The results showed that the four-month isoniazid and rifampicin regimen significantly reduced the number of active tuberculosis cases compared to the nine-month standard. Additionally, all three shorter treatment options showed higher rates of patient adherence compared to the longer nine-month course. This means children were more likely to complete their medication on these shorter schedules.
Safety data showed some differences in how well patients tolerated the drugs. Specifically, the three-month isoniazid and rifapentine course was more likely to cause adverse reactions than the other short-term options. While shorter courses may improve completion rates, the high variability in how side effects were reported makes it hard to draw firm conclusions on safety. Patients and doctors should discuss these options based on individual needs.
