Could aspirin or ibuprofen help beat TB faster?

NCT ID NCT04575519

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study tested whether adding aspirin or ibuprofen to standard tuberculosis (TB) treatment helps patients recover more quickly. It included 426 adults with drug-sensitive or drug-resistant TB. The trial was terminated early, so the results are not conclusive.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin) and ibuprofen

What this could lead to

If successful, adding common pain relievers could speed up recovery from tuberculosis and reduce treatment time.

What could go wrong

The trial was terminated early, so we don't have clear evidence it works. Aspirin and ibuprofen also carry risks like bleeding or stomach issues.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

infectious disease latent tuberculosis infection multidrug-resistant tuberculosis pulmonary tuberculosis tuberculosis

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • National Center for Tuberculosis and Lung Diseases

    Tbilisi, Georgia

  • PHRU- Matlosana, Tshepong Hospital MDR Unit

    Klerksdorp, Matlosana, South Africa

  • Perinatal HIV Unit (PHRU)- Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital

    Soweto, Johannesburg, 1864, South Africa