NAPLEX (North American Pharmacist Licensure Examination) Practice Exam

What is the duration of the intensive phase for active tuberculosis treatment?

1. 2 months

2. 3 months

3. 4 months

4. 6 months

The correct answer is: 2 months

The duration of the intensive phase for active tuberculosis treatment is typically 2 months. This phase involves the use of four medications to quickly kill off the active bacteria. The other options are incorrect because - Option B: 3 months is the duration of the continuation phase, where only two medications are used to further eliminate any remaining bacteria. - Option C: 4 months may seem like a reasonable duration for a treatment phase, but it is too long for the intensive phase, which is designed to quickly reduce the bacterial load. - Option D: 6 months is the total duration of active tuberculosis treatment, including both the intensive and continuation phases. Since this question specifically asks about the intensive phase, 6 months is too long of a duration.