Indicated for: tuberculosis
Route of administration: oral
Substance: rifampicin (anti-tuberculosis agent)
ATC: J04AB02 (Antiinfectives for systemic use | Drugs for treatment of tuberculosis | Antibiotics)
Rifampicin is an antibiotic primarily used to treat tuberculosis and other severe bacterial infections, such as leprosy or infections caused by Staphylococcus aureus. It belongs to the rifamycin class and works by inhibiting bacterial RNA synthesis, effectively killing the bacteria.
It is an essential medication in tuberculosis treatment, used in combination with other antibiotics to prevent bacterial resistance. Rifampicin is also used to prevent bacterial meningitis in individuals exposed to Neisseria meningitidis.
Side effects may include nausea, abdominal pain, orange discoloration of urine, tears, or saliva, and, more rarely, liver function impairment. Patients must strictly follow the prescribed treatment regimen to avoid the development of bacterial resistance.
Rifampicin should not be used without medical supervision, as it interacts with many other medications and may reduce their effectiveness.