What is the primary consequence of untreated adverse drug reactions in TB patients?

The primary consequence of untreated adverse drug reactions in tuberculosis (TB) patients is loss to follow-up or treatment failure. Adverse drug reactions can cause significant discomfort, health complications, and concerns that may lead patients to discontinue their treatment. When patients experience negative side effects without appropriate management, they may become discouraged, stop attending their treatment appointments, or altogether abandon their therapy. This can ultimately result in incomplete treatment, which poses a severe risk of treatment failure and can contribute to the development of drug-resistant strains of TB. This situation not only jeopardizes the health of the affected patient but also impacts public health by increasing the potential for transmission of drug-resistant TB within the community.

In contrast to the correct answer, options like improved patient outcomes and increased treatment adherence are unrealistic in the context of untreated adverse drug reactions, as these reactions typically hinder rather than enhance patient experiences and compliance with treatment protocols. Lower healthcare costs also do not correlate with untreated adverse reactions; in fact, the long-term costs may increase due to the need for additional healthcare interventions related to treatment failure and disease complications.