What does it mean when tuberculosis is described as multidrug resistant?

Describing tuberculosis (TB) as multidrug resistant specifically indicates that the infection is resistant to at least two of the most potent first-line anti-TB medications, which are isoniazid and rifampin. These drugs are cornerstone treatments for TB, and their effectiveness is crucial for successful therapy. When a strain of TB is resistant to both of these medications, it complicates treatment regimens significantly and may require the use of less effective second-line medications, which often have more side effects and a longer duration of treatment.

Understanding this classification is vital in guiding treatment strategies and public health responses, as it highlights the need for careful management of TB cases and emphasizes the importance of adherence to prescribed treatment to prevent the development of such resistant strains.