Which statement about latent TB treatment regimens is correct?

• A. INH monotherapy for 9 months.
• B. Rifamycin-based regimens are preferred over monotherapy with INH.
• C. INH and RIF daily for three months.
• D. INH and rifapentine weekly for three months.

Answer: (B)

Treating latent TB infection aims to prevent progression to active disease by eradicating dormant bacilli. While INH for 9 months can be effective, modern guidelines favor regimens that include rifamycins because they achieve similar protection with a shorter, more tolerable course, which improves patient adherence and completion.

Rifamycin-based options include a 4-month course of rifampin and the 12-week (3-month) regimen of isoniazid plus rifapentine given weekly. Both are shorter than 9 months of INH alone and offer comparable efficacy and safety, making them preferable in many patients. The idea behind the correct choice is that using rifamycins shortens therapy duration and enhances completion, which is central to effective latent TB management.