What happens to your body when TB medicines are not taken properly

TB treatment typically requires a combination of antibiotics taken for six to nine months.

As of 2025, India has an estimated 25.5 million (2.55 crore) reported cases of tuberculosis (TB) — an infectious disease caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis — according to the National Tuberculosis Elimination Programme (NTEP) and data from the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. “TB primarily affects the lungs but can also spread to other organs, including the kidneys, spine, and brain,” explains Dr. Sunil Kumar K, Lead Consultant – Interventional Pulmonology, Aster CMI Hospital, Bangalore. When the lungs are involved, symptoms include persistent coughing, chest pain, and blood in the sputum. If the infection spreads beyond the lungs, it can lead to back pain, joint issues, or meningitis.

When the infection spirals out of control
“TB treatment typically involves a combination of antibiotics taken over six to nine months,” says Dr. Kumar. It is crucial to take these medications on schedule and complete the full course. However, TB medicines can be harsh, with some patients experiencing mild stomach discomfort or uneasiness when taken on an empty stomach — which is generally recommended. While this may tempt some to skip doses, doing so can have serious consequences.

“When TB medications are not taken consistently or the full course is not completed, the bacteria are not fully eliminated. This allows some bacteria to survive and develop resistance to standard drugs — a condition known as drug-resistant TB,” explains Dr. Kashmira Jhala, Consultant Pulmonologist and International Sleep Disorder Specialist, Apollo Hospitals, Ahmedabad.