Multidrug-Resistant Tuberculosis (MDR TB)
and Possible Effective Treatments

MDR TB occurs when a Mycobacterium tuberculosis strain is resistant to isoniazid and rifampin, two of the most powerful first-line drugs. To cure MDR TB, healthcare providers must turn to a combination of second-line drugs, several of which are shown here. Click here to see how these drugs work. Second-line drugs may have more side effects, the treatment may last much longer, and the cost may be up to 100 times more than first-line therapy. MDR TB strains can also grow resistant to second-line drugs, further complicating treatment.

Drug-Resistant TB—A Visual Tour

First-Line Treatment of Tuberculosis (TB) for Drug-Sensitive TB
Multidrug-Resistant Tuberculosis (MDR TB) and Possible Effective Treatments
Extensively Drug-Resistant Tuberculosis (XDR TB) Diminishing Options for Treatment
New Tuberculosis Drugs Under Development

Learn More

TB Definitions
Scientific Illustrations of Drug-Resistant TB
TB Home Page

Photo Credit: The photo of Mycobacterium tuberculosis was obtained from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, CDC/ Dr. Ray Butler; Janice Carr.
Illustration Credit: This illustration is in the public domain. Please credit the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID).
Illustrator: Krista Townsend