In Germany, drug-sensitive tuberculosis is usually treated with the highly effective drugs of standard therapy. Treatment lasts at least 6 months and begins with a 2-month intensive phase in which four drugs (isoniazid, rifampicin, pyrazinamide and ethambutol) are taken. This is followed by a 4-month maintenance phase with only two drugs (isoniazid and rifampicin). In the case of pronounced findings or a delayed response to treatment, the maintenance phase can be extended in order to reduce the risk of a relapse. The dosage of standard therapy medication is calculated on the basis of body weight. The duration and composition of the therapy can also change for extrapulmonary forms of tuberculosis.

For successful therapy, it is crucial to take the medication regularly and in the correct dosage, ideally 30 minutes before breakfast. If this is poorly tolerated, it can be taken after a light breakfast or in the evening. However, irregular intake can lead to the bacteria becoming resistant and the therapy becoming more complicated and protracted.

Drug-sensitive tuberculosis can be successfully cured in most cases with consistent therapy.