News 2025

Tuberculosis is a contagious but curable infectious disease that primarily affects the lungs. Some pathogens have now become resistant to important drugs. The new guideline therefore recommends combination therapies that last only six months – instead of up to 18 months as was previously the case. In addition, only tablets are used; injections or infusions are no longer necessary.

Two new treatment regimens are recommended for most patients: BPaLM and BDLLfx. Both combinations contain modern active ingredients such as bedaquiline, linezolid, and moxifloxacin, which are particularly effective against resistant tuberculosis bacteria.

“The revision of the guideline for the treatment of drug-resistant tuberculosis focuses on the simplest combination therapies currently recommended by the WHO,” explains Prof. Christoph Lange from the Research Center Borstel, a member of the guideline group. “Patients have to take fewer drugs over a shorter period of time – and the chances of recovery are just as good as with the sensitive form of tuberculosis.”

The guideline also emphasizes the importance of good care, a secure supply of medication, and social support during treatment so that no one has to discontinue therapy.

Since drug-resistant tuberculosis is rare in Germany, it is recommended that treatment be carried out in specialized centers or in collaboration with experienced specialists. Physicians seeking advice can contact the TBinfo service of the German Center for Infection Research (DZIF) at the Research Center Borstel (tel.: 04537 188 0). The goal remains to successfully cure every case of the disease and prevent the spread of resistant pathogens.

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