Drug-resistant tuberculosis is a global cause of concern

Abstract

The number of patients with drug-resistant tuberculosis (DR-TB) is increasing worldwide. This review summarises the global epidemiology of DR-TB and current treatment challenges. Luckily, novel regimens comprising bedaquiline, pretomanid, linezolid, and moxifloxacin have seemingly mitigated the global threat posed by DR-TB. However, emerging resistance against bedaquiline and pretomanid, among other factors, persists as ongoing concerns in the global fight against DR-TB. While the new regimens are groundbreaking, the sustained development of novel drugs targeting the most resistant forms of tuberculosis is of utmost importance for future efforts against DR-TB.