Rifampicin is part of the rifamycin group of antibiotics, and is used to treat a number of bacterial infections including TB, Legionnaire’s disease and leprosy. Typically used as a co-treatment in conjunction with other antibiotics, it can be used as a sole treatment for prevention of Haemophilus influenzae B and meningococcal disease for patients who have been exposed to the bacteria.
Rifampicin can cause hepatotoxicity, and so frequent liver function tests are recommended while on courses of this antibiotic. Measurements of liver enzymes and blood tests are suggested pre-treatment.
The drug functions through inhibition of the bacterial DNA-dependent RNA synthesis by inhibiting DNA-dependent RNA polymerase from functioning correctly.