Are Shorter 6-Month All-Oral TB Regimens Cost-Effective in India?
Key Takeaways
Shorter regimens for MDR/RR-TB are cost-effective.
They lead to better health outcomes compared to longer treatments.
Both BPaL and BPaLM regimens are economically beneficial.
Shorter treatment duration enhances patient adherence.
Aligns with India's TB elimination objectives.
New Delhi, Feb 12 (NationPress) A new study conducted by the ICMR has highlighted that shorter, six-month and all-oral treatment regimens for multidrug-resistant and rifampicin-resistant tuberculosis (MDR/RR-TB) are cost-effective and yield superior health outcomes compared to more extended treatment protocols. According to a statement from the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, the study indicates that with the shorter regimen, "for each additional Quality Adjusted Life Year (QALY) gained, the health system spends Rs 379 less per patient compared to the standard regimen, suggesting improved health outcomes at reduced costs."
The research evaluated the cost-effectiveness of bedaquiline-based regimens—BPaL (bedaquiline, pretomanid, and linezolid) against existing shorter (9–11 months) and longer (18–20 months) treatment regimens currently utilized under the National TB Elimination Programme (NTEP).
Additionally, the study assessed BPaLM (which includes moxifloxacin) and found it to be highly cost-effective, with an additional cost of merely Rs 37 per patient per additional QALY gained compared to standard regimens.
Both regimens were linked with lower or comparable overall healthcare expenses, such as medications, hospital visits, and follow-up care.
The treatment of MDR/RR-TB poses notable challenges due to its prolonged duration, adverse effects, and escalating costs.
The findings indicate that shorter all-oral regimens can enhance treatment adherence, mitigate patient morbidity, and facilitate a quicker return to normal life, while simultaneously alleviating the strain on the healthcare system.
“These findings present significant economic evidence to endorse the use of shorter, all-oral regimens for managing MDR or RR-TB in India. By shortening treatment duration from 9–18 months or longer to just six months, these regimens align with national priorities to optimize resource utilization and expedite efforts towards TB elimination,” the statement elaborated.
Currently, options for treating tuberculosis (TB) resistant to rifampicin (RR-TB) are limited, and available regimens are often lengthy and poorly tolerated.
Recently, Delhi’s Intermediate Reference Laboratory, Tuberculosis Centre received its inaugural certification from the Central Tuberculosis Division (CTD) to perform Drug Susceptibility Testing (DST) for bedaquiline (BDQ) and Pretomanid (Pa), which are used globally in the treatment of drug-resistant tuberculosis.
Point of View
My perspective remains aligned with the nation's commitment to improving healthcare outcomes. This study on shorter TB treatment regimens showcases an innovative approach that prioritizes both cost-effectiveness and enhanced patient care. We must continue to advocate for evidence-based strategies that support the fight against TB in India.
NationPress
20 Jun 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the benefits of shorter TB regimens?
Shorter TB regimens are associated with improved treatment adherence, reduced patient morbidity, and better overall health outcomes, while also lowering healthcare costs.
How does the cost-effectiveness of BPaL compare to standard regimens?
The BPaL regimen costs Rs 379 less per patient per additional QALY gained compared to standard regimens, demonstrating its cost-effectiveness.
What does the ICMR study reveal about TB treatment duration?
The ICMR study reveals that reducing treatment duration from 9–18 months to just six months significantly improves resource utilization and aligns with national TB elimination efforts.
Why is multidrug-resistant tuberculosis challenging to treat?
MDR-TB presents challenges due to its prolonged treatment duration, adverse effects, and higher costs compared to standard TB treatments.
What is the role of the Delhi Intermediate Reference Laboratory?
It has recently received certification to conduct Drug Susceptibility Testing for bedaquiline and Pretomanid, crucial for managing drug-resistant tuberculosis.
