India introduces BPaLM Regimen as novel treatment for Multi-Drug-Resistant Tuberculosis

This new regimen is expected to significantly enhance India's ability to meet its national TB elimination targets and improve the quality of treatment for those suffering from MDR-TB.

The Union Ministry of Health & Family Welfare has introduced the BPaLM regimen as a novel treatment for Multi-Drug-Resistant Tuberculosis (MDR-TB), aiming to significantly advance India's progress towards eliminating TB by 2025. This initiative aligns with the Hon’ble Prime Minister's vision to eliminate TB five years ahead of the global Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) target. Key aspects of the BPaLM regimen:

Composition: The regimen combines four drugs—Bedaquiline, Pretomanid, Linezolid, and optionally Moxifloxacin.

Efficacy: The BPaLM regimen is a safer and more effective treatment option compared to traditional MDR-TB treatments. It can cure drug-resistant TB in just six months, compared to the previous treatment duration of up to 20 months, and is associated with fewer side effects.

Approval: Pretomanid, one of the components of this regimen, has been licensed for use in India by the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO).

Patient Impact: Approximately 75,000 drug-resistant TB patients in India are expected to benefit from this shorter regimen, which also promises cost savings due to its efficiency.

Validation: The treatment regimen underwent thorough validation, including a review by in-country experts and a Health Technology Assessment by the Department of Health Research, to ensure safety and cost-effectiveness.

Implementation: A nationwide rollout plan is being developed by the Central TB Division in consultation with States and Union Territories. This includes capacity building for healthcare professionals to safely administer the new regimen.

This new regimen is expected to significantly enhance India's ability to meet its national TB elimination targets and improve the quality of treatment for those suffering from MDR-TB.