Tong Ren Shi

Researchers are evaluating a new tuberculosis preventive treatment among adolescents and school staff who have been in close contact with active TB cases. This study compares a novel 1-month ultra-short regimen called 1H3P3 with the standard 3-month 3HR regimen, aiming to prevent latent TB infection from progressing to active tuberculosis. The trial is a phase 3, multi-center, open-label, cluster randomized controlled study conducted in school settings in China, with the goal of improving TB prevention strategies for adolescents. Participants are randomly assigned to receive either the 12-dose 1H3P3 regimen of isoniazid and rifapentine taken three times a week for one month, or the 3HR regimen of isoniazid and rifampicin taken once daily for three months. Close contacts of TB cases are screened using blood tests, chest X-rays, sputum testing, and symptom checks to rule out active TB before enrollment. The treatment period lasts either one or three months depending on the group, followed by two years of follow-up to monitor for TB development. During the study, participants will undergo regular assessments including monitoring for active tuberculosis through clinical and laboratory tests, adverse events, treatment adherence, and drug resistance if active TB occurs. The main measurement is the cumulative incidence of active TB over 24 months after treatment begins. Safety and treatment completion rates are tracked throughout. Participation involves screening, treatment administration, and periodic follow-up visits over two years to evaluate outcomes and overall TB prevention effectiveness.