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Tuberculin (Injection)

Brand Name(s):

Tubersol, Aplisol

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this test if you have ever had an allergic reaction to a TB skin test.

How to Use This Medicine:

Injectable

This is a skin test that will show if you have tuberculosis (TB). In order to make sure that you do not have TB, your doctor may ask you to come back for a second test.
For the intradermal injection, medicine is injected into the skin on your forearm. A small bump should appear on your skin.
For the multiple-puncture device (Tine test), a device with several prongs is pressed against the skin on your forearm. It will slightly scratch your skin.
Your skin may become red and swollen in the area where the medicine was given.
You must return to your doctor in 2 or 3 days so that he/she can look at the way your skin has reacted to the medicine. It is VERY IMPORTANT that you come back for this exam.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Before you have this test, be sure your doctor knows if you have had a vaccination within the last 4 to 6 weeks, if you are HIV positive or have AIDS, if you are getting medicine or radiation for cancer, or if you are taking a corticosteroid medicine such as cortisone or prednisone.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

Make sure your doctor knows if you are allergic to acacia.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

Rash or hives
Swelling of the face, throat, or lips
Wheezing or trouble breathing
If your skin in the area of the test looks dark or becomes an open sore

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

Skin pain or itching at the site of the test

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor:

Reviewed last on: 1/4/2010

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