<s>[INST] Why is the treatment period for TB disease so long? [/INST] Most antibiotics capable of destroying bacteria can only do so while the bacteria are actively replicating. The replication cycle of Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex organisms is relatively long; therefore, lengthy treatment is required to ensure that all of the bacteria are destroyed. If the treatment is inconsistent or too short, some bacteria may survive, potentially allowing tuberculosis (TB) disease to reactivate or develop drug resistance. Source: T-SPOT ASIA. Link: https://tspot.asia/resources/frequently-asked-questions/. Field: Lung Disease. Disease: Tuberculosis </s>