Prevalence and Management of Adverse Drug Reactions among Patients on Antituberculosis Therapy in Adamawa State, North East Nigeria

Background: Antituberculosis drugs, though effective, are associated with a range of adverse drug reactions (ADRs) that can compromise treatment adherence and outcomes. Identifying and managing these ADRs is essential to supporting treatment completion and reducing defaulter rates. This study assessed the prevalence, types, and management of ADRs among patients on antituberculosis therapy in Adamawa State. Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted at the tuberculosis directly observed therapy (DOTS) clinic of Yola Specialist Hospital, Adamawa State. One hundred and sixty patients on first-line antituberculosis therapy were followed up for four months. ADRs were documented using the WHO causality assessment scale. Results: ADRs were recorded in 55 percent of patients. The most common were peripheral neuropathy (31%), gastrointestinal disturbances (28%), and hepatotoxicity (14%). The majority of ADRs (68%) were classified as probable. Management was reactive in 89 percent of cases, with prophylactic pyridoxine prescribed for neuropathy prevention in only 37 percent. No formal ADR reporting to the national pharmacovigilance database was documented. Conclusion: ADRs are prevalent in tuberculosis treatment in Adamawa and are inadequately managed. Routine ADR monitoring, prophylactic prescribing, and linkage to pharmacovigilance systems should be priorities. Keywords: antituberculosis therapy, adverse drug reactions, Adamawa, pharmacovigilance, DOTS