Which of the following is a common side effect of TB medication?

The correct response highlights that all listed options – nausea, loss of appetite, and headaches – are recognized as common side effects associated with tuberculosis (TB) medications.

When patients undergo treatment for TB, they are typically prescribed a combination of antibiotics, such as isoniazid, rifampin, ethambutol, and pyrazinamide. These medications can lead to gastrointestinal disturbances, which frequently manifest as nausea. Additionally, a decrease in appetite is a concern, as these medications may also cause discomfort or alter the body’s metabolism, leading individuals to eat less.

Headaches may arise due to a variety of factors, including the body adjusting to the new medications, potential drug interactions, or even the infection itself causing systemic symptoms.

Given the broad scope of common side effects from the various TB medications, it is entirely plausible for a patient experiencing treatment to encounter all three of these symptoms simultaneously. This reinforces the importance of monitoring patients closely during their treatment regimen to manage any side effects that may arise.