A new study under the ChilPref ML initiative, led by Stellenbosch University and supported by TB Alliance and Unitaid, has found that two versions of the TB drug moxifloxacin are significantly more palatable than existing generics. The research, aimed at improving drug-resistant tuberculosis (TB) treatment for children, highlights taste as a crucial factor for young patients and their caregivers.
Moxifloxacin is part of the BPaLM regimen used for treating rifampicin-resistant and multidrug-resistant TB (RR/MDR-TB), affecting up to 32,000 children annually. Though not yet recommended for very young children under the BPaLM regimen, moxifloxacin is frequently used in other pediatric TB treatments. Researchers stress that the bitter taste of current formulations often hinders adherence, making palatability a key concern. The study demonstrated a safe, low-cost approach to formulating more acceptable medications, which experts say can be replicated for other treatments in pediatric care.
