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Addressing the Consequences of Delayed TB Treatment in Africa: Dry Powder Formulations of Drugs and Vaccines for Enhanced Efficacy

Fourie P.

Respiratory Drug Delivery 2014. Volume 1, 2014: 109-118.

Abstract:

Timely diagnosis and treatment-to-cure of patients suffering from tuberculosis (TB) form the cornerstone of successful control of the TB epidemic. Unfortunately, a potentially quick process is often hindered by delays that originate with late recognition of symptoms, failure to seek medical help by patients, inaccessible services, and inadequate diagnostic processes within the health system. In recent studies in Ethiopia, Brazil, South Africa, and Uganda, initiation of treatment in diseased patients was reported to be delayed for a median period of up to 60 days from the emergence of symptoms. In addition, newly diagnosed patients face long treatment periods (at least six months), even with state-of-the-art multidrug regimens, together with high risks for adverse effects. This leads to patient non-compliance with treatment, and in many cases patients return for medical help with multidrug resistant forms of the disease, facing a new cycle of therapy and extending treatment for a further 24 months. Dramatically shortening TB treatment times with more powerful treatment options would go a long way towards combating the consequences of treatment delays. Delivery of various key anti-TB drugs as inhaled dry powders suitable for pulmonary deposition shows promise.