The Union Ministry of Health & Family Welfare has approved the BPaLM regimen, a novel and faster-acting treatment for Multi-Drug-Resistant Tuberculosis (MDR-TB). This move aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision to eradicate TB in India five years ahead of the global target set by the Sustainable Development Goals. This press release was issued on September 6, 2024.
Shorter Treatment, Higher Success Rate
The BPaLM regimen, a four-drug combination, offers a dramatic improvement over traditional MDR-TB treatments. While older methods can last up to 20 months with harsh side effects, the BPaLM regimen can cure drug-resistant TB in just six months with a high success rate. This not only benefits patients by reducing treatment duration and alleviating side effects but also offers potential cost savings.
Rigorous Testing and Rollout
The Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, in collaboration with the Department of Health Research, ensured thorough validation of the BPaLM regimen through expert review and health technology assessment. A nationwide rollout plan is currently being developed by the Central TB Division, which includes training healthcare professionals to safely administer the new treatment.
National TB Elimination Program (NTEP): A Multi-Pronged Approach
The BPaLM regimen is the latest weapon in India’s fight against TB. The NTEP, previously known as RNTCP, plays a crucial role in achieving the ambitious goal of TB elimination by 2025. This program focuses on:
Early detection: Reaching all TB patients, including those seeking care from private providers and high-risk populations.
Universal Drug Susceptibility Testing (UDST): Testing all diagnosed TB patients for drug resistance before initiating treatment.
Pradhan Mantri TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan (PMTBMBA): A public awareness campaign to encourage collective action towards TB elimination.
Ni-kshay Mitra: An initiative to provide additional support to TB patients during treatment.
Extensive laboratory network: India boasts the world’s largest TB laboratory network, facilitating rapid diagnosis and treatment initiation.
India is poised to make significant strides in its fight against TB. The BPaLM regimen, coupled with the NTEP’s comprehensive strategies, offers a promising path towards achieving the national goal of TB elimination by 2025.
