Advice after your nerve block for surgery
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As you may remember, you recently had a blood test/skin test to check your immunity against Tuberculosis (TB). The result of your test shows that you may have had some exposure to TB at some time in the past. We therefore advise that you have “prophylaxis” (preventative) treatment to reduce your chances of developing TB in the future.
The treatment usually consists of taking antibiotics for 3 months. These are in the form of a combination tablet called Rifinah (Rifampicin/Isoniazid).
The tablets are usually very well tolerated and rarely cause any problems. However, any medication can occasionally cause side effects and below is a summary of symptoms / side effects which may occur.
Normal side effects
Urine and body fluids will become slightly orange in colour.
Rare side effects
- Some patients may become slightly nauseated or experience some change in appetite early in the treatment; but this improves quickly as the body “gets used to” the medication.
- Some patients feel slightly “itchy” but, provided a rash does not occur, you should carry on with the treatment.
Very rare side effects
- Inflammation of the liver, which causes pain in the upper abdomen (on the right, below the ribs) and may result in jaundice.
- Allergic rashes can occur, very rarely, in which case you need to stop taking the tablets immediately.
Precautions – important information for women of Childbearing age
- Rifampicin reduces the effectiveness 4of the contraceptive pill. You will need to use an additional method of protection while taking the antibiotics. You may wish to consult your GP for advice.
- It is advised not to take this treatment during pregnancy. If you know you are - or suspect you may be - pregnant, please tell us immediately so that we can investigate alternative treatment options.
Tablet Count
- 2 orange or 3 pink tablets to be taken on an empty stomach (30 mins to 1 hrs before food) in the morning.
- Pyridoxine (vitamin B6) 10mg 1 tablet daily
Monthly phone calls
If you experience any of the symptoms listed in points 2-3, please contact the Chest Clinic by telephone on
Contact number: 0300 6146468 or 0300 6146064
(8.00am – 4.00pm, Monday-Friday).
Outside these hours, please call NHS 111 for advice if you experience serious side effects.
Children's Blood Test:
Contact us
If you have any queries relating to this information, please contact the Respiratory medicine service.
About this information
Service:
Respiratory medicine
Reference:
W/033
Approval date:
1 October 2024
Review date:
1 October 2027
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Important note
This page provides general information only. It is developed by clinical staff and is reviewed regularly every 3 years for accuracy. For personal advice about your health, or if you have any concerns, please speak to your doctor.