What Is Tuberculosis?
6. Drug Resistance
As mentioned, some strains of TB have developed a resistance to antibiotics. This happens because, just like other living organisms, bacteria are able to evolve and adapt to their environment. After exposure to certain medications, random mutations in their genes will sometimes cause them to have properties that allow them to resist that medication.
This can mean that the patient cannot be treated with certain medication, or that recovery will be slower. Bacteria and other pathogens developing a resistance to drugs is one reason why antibiotics and antiviral medications are now used sparingly. It is also why it is suggested that patients complete full courses of antibiotics even if they have recovered.
Advertisement
-06.jpg)
