Tuberculin

The Basics

What is Tuberculin?

Used in the diagnosis of tuberculosis.

Brand names for Tuberculin

Aplisol

How Tuberculin is classified

Antigens, Purified Protein Derivative

Tuberculin During Pregnancy

Tuberculin pregnancy category

Category CNote that the FDA has deprecated the use of pregnancy categories, so for some medications, this information isn’t available. We still think it’s useful to list historical info, however, given what a common proxy this has been in the past.

What we know about taking Tuberculin while pregnant

Animal reproduction studies have not been conducted with Aplisol. It is also not known whether Aplisol can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman or can affect the reproduction capacity. Aplisol should be given to a pregnant woman only if clearly needed. However, the risk of unrecognized tuberculosis and the postpartum contact between a mother with active disease and an infant leaves the infant in grave danger of tuberculosis and complications such as tuberculous meningitis. Although there have not been any reported adverse effects upon the fetus recognized as being due to tuberculosis skin testing, the prescribing physician will want to consider if the potential benefits outweigh the possible risks for performing the tuberculin test on a pregnant woman or a woman of childbearing age, particularly in certain high risk populations. Tuberculin skin testing is considered valid and safe throughout pregnancy.3

Taking Tuberculin While Breastfeeding

What are recommendations for lactation if you're taking Tuberculin?

There is no reason to withhold breastfeeding after tuberculosis skin testing or to avoid skin testing in nursing mothers.

Maternal / infant drug levels

There is no reason to withhold breastfeeding after tuberculosis skin testing or to avoid skin testing in nursing mothers.

Possible effects of Tuberculin on milk supply

Relevant published information was not found as of the revision date.

Possible alternatives to Tuberculin