The use of fixed-dose combined (FDC) drugs in the treatment of tuberculosis by National Tuberculosis Programmes has been recommended by both the International Union Against Tuberculosis and Lung Disease (The Union) and the World Health Organisation. The advantages of FDC drugs include preventing the emergence of drug resistance due to monotherapy, reducing the risk of incorrect dosage, simplifying procurement and prescribing practices, aiding adherence and facilitating directly observed treatment. Recent bioavailability studies of four-drug FDC tablets have demonstrated satisfactory results. In this study, we are testing the efficacy of this compound, when given in the initial intensive phase of treatment of patients with newly diagnosed smear positive pulmonary tuberculosis. This will be followed by four months treatment with a two-drug FDC of rifampicin and isoniazid.