Archive · 21 Nov 2025
New Antibiotic Shows Promise in Shortening TB Treatment Time
Scientists have found a new antibiotic that might help treat tuberculosis (TB) faster.
In a test, it worked better than an older drug.
If it's safe and effective, it could help people with TB get better quicker.
More tests are needed to be sure.
Phase 2 trial results show sorfequiline (TBAJ-876) could improve TB treatment
Sorfequiline, when used with pretomanid and linezolid (SpaL), shows greater activity than bedaquiline
Trial suggests potential to shorten treatment time for both drug-resistant and drug-sensitive TB
TB Alliance plans Phase 3 trial in high-burden countries, including India, starting in 2026
Sorfequiline could treat bedaquiline-resistant strains and has a potentially better safety profile
- Who
- TB Alliance, Dr. Vikas Oswal, TB patients
- What
- Developed a new antibiotic, sorfequiline, for TB treatment
- When
- Phase 2 trial results presented at Union World Conference on Lung Health, Phase 3 trial planned for 2026
- Where
- South Africa, Philippines, Georgia, Tanzania, Uganda, and potentially India in future
- Why
- To shorten treatment time and fight drug-resistant TB
Proponents of Sorfequiline
Cautious Stakeholders
Treatment Duration
Proponents of Sorfequiline
Sorfequiline could shorten TB treatment time
Cautious Stakeholders
More trials needed to confirm safety and efficacy
Drug Resistance
Proponents of Sorfequiline
Sorfequiline may treat bedaquiline-resistant strains
Cautious Stakeholders
Resistance patterns may vary, requiring further study
- Drug Name
- Sorfequiline (TBAJ-876)
- Trial Phase
- Phase 2
- Trial Sites
- 22 sites across 5 countries
- Trial Regimen
- SpaL (Sorfequiline, Pretomanid, Linezolid)
- Comparison Regimen
- HRZE (Isoniazid, Rifampin, Pyrazinamide, Ethambutol)
- Planned Phase 3 Trial
- 2026, in high-burden countries
- Potential Impact
- Shortening TB treatment time, treating drug-resistant strains
