New Study: Shorter TB Treatment in India Saves Lives and Money

A new study from India has shown that using shorter, all-oral treatments for drug-resistant tuberculosis (DR-TB) can improve health and save money at the same time.

The research, done by India’s National Institute for Research in Tuberculosis, looked at several versions of the BPaL treatment regimen, BPaLM, as well as other six-month treatment regimens and compared their cost effectiveness to longer, 9 to 11 month DR-TB treatments . The study found that these new regimens were all more cost effective than longer treatment. The true standout was one dosing scheme of BPaL, which was deemed a “dominant” option—meaning it works better and costs less than comparators.

Better Outcomes for People with TB

The study showed that people treated with BPaL-based regimens are more likely to recover and face fewer health problems over time. Although the study mainly looked at health system costs, the researchers noted that including patient expenses—like travel, lost wages, or long hospital stays—would make the benefits of these shorter regimens even more clear. Other studies have shown that shorter treatment means fewer days missed from work and lower out-of-pocket costs for patients and families.

A Big Opportunity for India

India has the highest number of people with DR-TB in the world. Unfortunately, treatment success rates in the country remain low—around 46%, compared to the global average of 63%. But in studies of BPaL-based regimens, success rates have reached 90% or more.

This new research gives strong support to expanding the use of these shorter, simpler treatments—not just in India, but in all countries where DR-TB remains a major challenge.

A Path Forward

Treatments that are faster, easier to take, and more affordable can change the future of TB care. This study adds to growing global evidence that switching to BPaL-based regimens is a smart choice—for people, for public health, and for national budgets.