I started my medication journey in June 2024 and really struggled with adverse effects. I would like to post some experiences so that people starting their journey do not feel alone.
Side Effects from Medicine:
Stage 1 ( week 1 to week 8 )
This is a combination of ethamutabol/rifampicin/pyromiazide/isoniazid.
My initial effects were:
Exhaustion, no desire to eat, nausea, dizziness and the most awaited brown pee. I combated these by ensuring to google best meals to help with light nutrition. I also drank lots of water and took supplements ( vitamin C 1000 mg + Zinc 15 mg + Vitamin D 1000 IU ). The cough took 2 full months to completely stop but with a hearty laugh there is still a residual cough.
Stage 2 ( week 9 to month 5 )
This is a combination of rifampicin/isoniazid.
My ankles began swelling a week into being shifted to this combination to the point I struggled to walk. I had to increase my B complex intake to help with the swelling. It took 1 month for the swelling to subside. Next issue I noticed at this point was alopecia. My hair was coming off when combing. My nails were brittle and my skin was really dry. I changed my supplement intake to the previous ( vitamin C 1000 mg + Zinc 15 mg + Vitamin D 1000 IU ) and added ( Biotin + Collagen ). Best collagen is from bone broth. I also rejoined the gym which has helped with removal of phlegm still trapped within the chest cavity. It often manifests as throat clearing but using the face steamer helps clearing it all out.
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