What is the primary purpose of directly observed therapy (DOT) in TB management?

• A. Ensure adherence to therapy
• B. Accelerate drug metabolism
• C. Increase appetite
• D. Replace pharmacotherapy

Answer: (A)

Directly observed therapy aims to ensure adherence to drug therapy. TB treatment is long and requires taking several medicines every day for at least six months. If doses are missed, TB bacteria can survive, raising the risks of treatment failure, relapse, and the development of drug resistance. Having a health worker or trained observer watch the patient take each dose helps verify that the full regimen is followed and completed as prescribed, and it allows early detection of side effects or barriers to adherence. The goal is to boost treatment success by ensuring consistent, complete therapy, not by altering metabolism, increasing appetite, or replacing the medications.