Abstract |
The effectiveness of a tablet containing a combination of rifampicin, isoniazid and pyrazinamide ( Rifater; Mer-National) in the treatment of pulmonary tuberculosis was examined by comparing it with a previously evaluated four- drug regimen. Of 150 black goldminers with a first case of pulmonary tuberculosis, 69 were randomly allocated to receive the combination tablet (RHZ), 5 tablets per day on weekdays for 100 treatment-days, and 81 the four- drug regimen ( streptomycin, rifampicin, isoniazid and pyrazinamide) (RHZS). Non-compliance was detected in 42% of the RHZ group and in 16% of the RHZS group. Two patients in the RHZ group and 4 in the RHZS group had to have their treatment altered because routine investigations revealed drug-resistant mycobacteria. Treatment was unsuccessful in 10 patients in the RHZ group, with 4 men failing to complete the regimen and being lost to follow-up, 3 cases of failure of conversion of sputum on the regimen, and 3 relapses. The results for the RHZS group were similar, with 4 failures to complete the regimen, 2 treatment failures and 4 relapses. Evaluation of RHZ showed it to be comparable with a previously evaluated, successful short-course regimen (RHZS). The high incidence of non-compliance probably reflects reduced supervision of this wholly oral regimen.
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Authors | R L Cowie, B A Brink |
Journal | South African medical journal = Suid-Afrikaanse tydskrif vir geneeskunde
(S Afr Med J)
Vol. 77
Issue 8
Pg. 390-1
(Apr 21 1990)
ISSN: 0256-9574 [Print] South Africa |
PMID | 2184527
(Publication Type: Clinical Trial, Comparative Study, Journal Article, Randomized Controlled Trial)
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Chemical References |
- Antitubercular Agents
- Drug Combinations
- Tablets
- isoniazid, pyrazinamide, rifampin drug combination
- Pyrazinamide
- Isoniazid
- Rifampin
- Streptomycin
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Topics |
- Adult
- Antitubercular Agents
(administration & dosage)
- Drug Combinations
- Drug Therapy, Combination
- Humans
- Isoniazid
(administration & dosage, therapeutic use)
- Male
- Middle Aged
- Pyrazinamide
(administration & dosage, therapeutic use)
- Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
- Rifampin
(administration & dosage, therapeutic use)
- Streptomycin
(administration & dosage)
- Tablets
- Tuberculosis, Pulmonary
(drug therapy)
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