Tuberculosis Treatment in India

TB spreads through the air when a person with active lung TB coughs or sneezes. Many people carry the infection in an inactive (latent) form without symptoms.

Treatment for drug-sensitive TB usually lasts 6 months. Drug-resistant TB needs specialised regimens for a longer period.

• Pulmonary TB — TB of the lungs, the most common form
• Extra-pulmonary TB — TB of the lymph nodes, abdomen, bones, spine, brain or other organs
• Latent TB infection — inactive infection without symptoms that can become active later
• Drug-resistant TB (MDR/XDR-TB) — TB that does not respond to standard first-line medicines

• Cough lasting more than two weeks
• Coughing up blood
• Fever, especially in the evenings
• Night sweats
• Unexplained weight loss and loss of appetite
• Swollen lymph nodes or back pain in extra-pulmonary TB

Seek urgent care if you cough up a large amount of blood, have severe breathlessness, or develop a severe headache, confusion or neck stiffness.

• Anyone with a cough lasting more than two weeks
• Close contacts of a person with active TB
• People with HIV, diabetes or weakened immunity
• Patients whose TB has not improved with treatment
• Patients needing evaluation for drug-resistant TB

Diagnosis combines a detailed history and examination with tests that detect the TB bacteria and check for drug resistance.

TB treatment uses a combination of medicines taken daily for the full course, with regular monitoring:

A standard 6-month course of first-line medicines (isoniazid, rifampicin, pyrazinamide and ethambutol), given in an intensive and a continuation phase.

Specialised regimens with newer medicines such as bedaquiline, designed by TB experts based on drug-resistance results.

Medical treatment, sometimes for longer, with surgery or drainage for spine, lymph node or abdominal TB when needed.

Regular blood tests, sputum tests and nutrition support to ensure cure and catch side effects early.

The cost of tuberculosis treatment in India depends on the tests and treatment required. Indicative costs at accredited hospitals are:

These figures are indicative and may vary by hospital, city and individual medical needs. Share your reports with us for a personalised, no-obligation estimate.

Factors affecting the cost:

• Type of TB and drug-resistance pattern
• Need for bronchoscopy, biopsy or surgery
• Duration of treatment and hospital stay
• Hospital category and city

With regular medicines, most patients feel much better within weeks, but the full course must be completed to cure TB and prevent resistance.

Typical stay in India: 5–10 days for diagnosis and starting treatment; the rest of the course is continued at home with remote follow-up.

Treatment is generally safe when given under medical supervision. Possible side effects include:

• Liver irritation — monitored with regular liver function tests
• Stomach upset and loss of appetite — usually manageable with timing and supportive medicines
• Tingling in hands and feet — prevented with vitamin B6 supplements
• Vision changes — with ethambutol, monitored with eye checks

Your care team will explain the benefits and risks of each option before starting treatment.

• Take every dose of medicine for the full course — never stop early
• Cover your mouth when coughing and keep rooms well ventilated during the first weeks
• Eat a high-protein, nutritious diet
• Avoid alcohol and smoking
• Attend all follow-up tests

1. Share your reports — send your recent tests and medical history for a free specialist review.
2. Get a treatment plan and estimate — receive hospital options, the suggested plan and an indicative cost.
3. Travel assistance — help with the medical visa invitation letter, airport pickup and accommodation.
4. Evaluation and treatment — consultation, tests and therapy at an accredited hospital with a dedicated coordinator.
5. Return home with follow-up — discharge summary, medication plan and remote follow-up with your doctor.