Tuberculosis Treatment: The Effectiveness of Dual Antibiotic Therapy

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In summary, tuberculosis patients are now given two different antibiotics at the same time to prevent the development of resistance. This approach is more effective because infections can rapidly adapt through mutations, and waiting for resistance to develop before administering a different antibiotic can be risky. The growth rate of TB in a host can also impact the efficacy of an antibiotic.
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LadiesMan
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Tuberculosis patients are now routinely given two different antibiotics at the same time. Why might this approach be more effective that administering a different antibiotic only after bacteria develop resistance to the first?

Is it because infections rapidly adapt through mutations?
 
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  • #2
LadiesMan said:
Tuberculosis patients are now routinely given two different antibiotics at the same time. Why might this approach be more effective that administering a different antibiotic only after bacteria develop resistance to the first?

Is it because infections rapidly adapt through mutations?

That really doesn't address the question of why give two antibiotics at the same time, that just explains how resistance occurs. What would be the risk of waiting for resistance to develop before giving a different antibiotic?
 
  • #3
You not on the wrong track with the mutation idea but there might be other idea that could be suitable.

How long does TB take to grow in a host? Is it actively growing in a host? How would grow rate impact the efficacity of an antibiotic?
 

What is Tuberculosis (TB)?

Tuberculosis (TB) is a bacterial infection caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It primarily affects the lungs, but can also affect other parts of the body such as the brain, spine, and kidneys. It is spread through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or speaks.

How is Tuberculosis treated?

Tuberculosis can be treated with a combination of antibiotics. The most common treatment for active TB is a combination of four drugs - isoniazid, rifampin, ethambutol, and pyrazinamide - taken for six to nine months. It is important to take the full course of antibiotics to prevent the development of drug-resistant TB.

What are the side effects of TB treatment?

The most common side effects of TB treatment include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, and jaundice. Some patients may also experience dizziness, headache, and skin rashes. It is important to inform your doctor if you experience any side effects, as they may be able to adjust your treatment plan.

Can TB be cured?

Yes, TB can be cured with proper treatment. It is important to complete the full course of antibiotics as prescribed by your doctor to ensure that all bacteria are eliminated from your body. Failure to complete treatment can lead to the development of drug-resistant TB.

Is TB treatment effective?

Yes, TB treatment is highly effective when the full course of antibiotics is completed. However, it is important to follow your doctor's instructions and take all medications as prescribed to ensure the best possible outcome. It is also important to continue following up with your doctor after treatment to monitor for any potential relapse.

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