Tuberculosis Preventive Therapy (TPT)

Tuberculosis Preventive Therapy (TPT) is treatment given to help prevent tuberculosis (TB) disease inpeople who are at higher risk of developing active TB. It helps stop inactive TB infection from becoming active TB disease.

TPT is important because it reduces the risk of developing active TB disease, especially among people living with HIV (PLHIV) and others with weakened immune systems.

TB remains one of the leading causes of illness and death among people living with HIV, but TPT can significantly reduce this risk.

TPT may be recommended for:

• People living with HIV (PLHIV)
• Children exposed to TB
• Close contacts of people diagnosed with TB
• People with weakened immune systems
• Individuals at high risk of developing TB disease

A healthcare provider will determine who is eligible for TPT.

No. TPT is used to prevent TB disease, not to treat active TB.

People with symptoms of active TB must be tested and treated with full TB treatment if diagnosed. Treatment for active TB is free in Ghana.

• Yes. A person can have TB bacteria in their body without showing symptoms. This is called latent TB infection.
• TPT helps prevent latent TB infection from progressing to active TB disease.

• HIV weakens the immune system, making it easier for TB bacteria to cause disease.
• People living with HIV are much more likely to develop active TB if exposed to TB bacteria. TPT helps reduce this risk and supports healthier lives.

Before starting TPT, healthcare providers usually:

• Screen for symptoms of active TB
• Review medical history
• Conduct necessary tests when needed

This helps ensure the person does not already have active TB disease.

Different TPT regimens may be used depending on national guidelines and individual health needs. Common medications include:

• Isoniazid
• Rifapentine
• Rifampicin

Healthcare providers will determine the most appropriate treatment option.

The duration of TPT depends on the regimen prescribed. Some treatments may last:

• 1 month
• 3 months
• 6 months
• Longer in certain situations

Patients should complete the full course as prescribed by their healthcare provider.

Yes. TPT is generally safe and effective when taken correctly under medical supervision.

Some people may experience mild side effects, but healthcare providers monitor patients throughout treatment.

Possible side effects may include:

• Nausea
• Fatigue
• Skin rash
• Tingling in the hands or feet
• Loss of appetite

Seek medical advice if symptoms become severe or unusual.

Yes. People living with HIV can safely take TPT together with antiretroviral therapy (ART) under the guidance of healthcare providers.

No prevention method is 100% guaranteed. However, TPT greatly reduces the risk of developing active TB disease.

Stopping treatment early may reduce the effectiveness of TPT.

It is important to complete the full course of medication exactly as prescribed.

Yes. Children who are exposed to TB or are at high risk may receive TPT after medical assessment.

Other ways to help prevent TB include:

• Early TB testing and treatment
• Good ventilation
• Covering the mouth when coughing or sneezing
• Wearing masks in high-risk settings when necessary
• Maintaining a healthy immune system
• Adhering to HIV treatment for people living with HIV

For more information on TB, HIV, and preventive healthcare services, contact the WAAF clinic, International Health Care Centre (IHCC) to speak with a qualified healthcare professional.

Seek medical attention if you experience symptoms such as:

• Persistent cough
• Fever
• Night sweats
• Weight loss
• Chest pain
• Fatigue

Early diagnosis and treatment are important.