Tuberculosis (TB) is a serious infectious disease caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The most common treatment for active TB involves a combination of antibacterial medications for a period of six to twelve months.
The standard four-drug regimen for active TB includes:
- Isoniazid (INH)
- Rifampin
- Pyrazinamide
- Ethambutol
These medications work by killing the bacteria or preventing them from multiplying. In addition to these medications, new enzymatic cocktails have shown promise in killing Mycobacterium tuberculosis strains, including drug-resistant ones. This new approach focuses on targeting specific enzymes crucial for the bacteria's survival.
Furthermore, researchers have discovered that acetic acid, the active ingredient in vinegar, can effectively kill mycobacteria, even highly drug-resistant strains. This finding opens up possibilities for alternative treatment options for TB.
It's important to note that latent TB infection requires different treatment than active TB. For latent TB, medications like isoniazid are used to kill the bacteria before they become active.
The treatment for TB can be challenging and require long-term commitment. It's crucial to adhere to the prescribed regimen to ensure the eradication of the bacteria and prevent the development of drug-resistant strains.
