Successful trials of a new drug combination to treat drug-resistant tuberculosis (TB) saw treatment time halved and fewer side effects. Around 480,000 people are estimated to have multi-drug resistant TB, but just a quarter of cases are diagnosed.
Only a small number of those who go through the current intensive two-year drug regime are cured. The results of the two clinical trials in Uzbekistan and Africa not only had a greater success rate, but were also less expensive than current treatments. Plans for a larger international trial are under way.
