What is the right dosage of Macox plus tablet?
Patient: Hello,I am suffering from Pulmonary TB from Jan'14. The doc has prescribed Forcox 2 tabs OD empty stomach x 2months. Post two months It has to be stopped and replaced with Macox Plus OD x 4months. The medicines were prescribed to me in a different city when I was travelling but now I am back to my city and cannot check with the Doctor who prescribed the medicines therefore I request you to guide me with the dosage of Macox Plus which will start in two weeks time. Since the doctor has not mentioned number of tablets how many should I take in a day. My age is 37, sex - male.Thanks,Gaurav Sharma Doctor: Hi & Welcome.Tablet Forecox contains Isoniazid, Rifampicin, Ethambutal & Pyrizinamide whereas Tablet Macox contains Isoniazid & Rifampicin.These are the first line drugs used in the treatment of pulmonary tuberculosis.As per the Revised National Tuberculosis Control Program, DOTS (Directly Observed Treatment - Short course) is recommended for the treatment of tuberculosis wherein the drugs are taken only thrice a week instead of daily. This is cost effective, results in reduced side effects and improves patient's compliance (capacity to take the tablet regularly). As per the DOTS you should take the medicines as follows. 1. Two tablets of Forecox to be taken once daily, thrice a week for 2 months & followed by 2. One tablet of Macox to be taken once daily, thrice a week for 4 months. All the medications should be taken early morning before meals as this helps in proper absorption of the drugs.  Pyridoxine 10mg to prevent neuropathy (caused by Isoniazid) is added to this regime.You have been prescribed the correct treatment for TB. Since you have completed 2 months of treatment with tablet Forecox with Pyridoxine, now you need to take one tablet containing Isoniazid & Riframpicin (Macox) along with Pyridoxine for remaining 4 months.Hope this will help you in getting the proper treatment.