How long does a typical TB treatment course last?

A typical treatment course for tuberculosis (TB) generally lasts around six months. This duration is crucial to ensure that the infection is fully cleared and to prevent the development of drug-resistant strains of the bacteria. During this time, patients typically take a combination of antibiotics to effectively combat the TB bacteria. Adherence to the full six-month regimen is fundamental for successful treatment outcomes, as stopping treatment early can lead to a relapse of active disease and potential transmission to others. In contrast, shorter durations such as one week or one month are insufficient for a comprehensive treatment, and a year is longer than what is usually required for most cases of TB, unless specified as part of particular treatment protocols for drug-resistant TB.