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Tuberculin Purified Protein Derivative (PPD) Injection

What is this medication?

TUBERCULIN PURIFIED PROTEIN DERIVATIVE (too BUR kyuh lun PYUR uh fide PROW teen) helps detect tuberculosis (TB). It is often used to see if a person has ever been exposed to TB. It does not diagnose active TB. It works by measuring your immune system's response to a killed (inactivated) version of the bacteria that causes TB.

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This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Aplisol, Tubersol

What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

  • Diabetes
  • HIV or AIDS
  • Immune system problems
  • Infection, especially a virus infection such as chickenpox, cold sores, or herpes
  • Kidney disease
  • Poor nutrition
  • An unusual or allergic reaction to tuberculin purified protein derivative, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
  • Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
  • Breastfeeding

How should I use this medication?

This medication is injected under the skin. It is given by your care team in a hospital or clinic setting.

Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. While it may be given to children for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

This does not apply. This medication is not for regular use. Call your care team if you are unable to keep your follow-up appointment.

What may interact with this medication?

  • Live virus vaccines
  • Medications that lower your chance of fighting infection
  • Steroid medications, such as prednisone or cortisone

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This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medication?

Visit your care team for regular health checks.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

  • Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report these to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):

  • Pain, redness, or irritation at injection site

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medication?

This medication is given in a hospital or clinic. It will not be stored at home.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.

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Note: Introduction and Additional Common Questions written and medically approved by Cleveland Clinic professionals.

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