Rifapentine
Priftin (rifapentine) is an antibiotic medication belonging to the rifamycin class, primarily used for the treatment and prevention of tuberculosis (TB) infections. It works by inhibiting bacterial DNA-dependent RNA polymerase, effectively stopping the growth of Mycobacterium tuberculosis. This medication is typically used in combination with other anti-TB drugs as part of a comprehensive treatment regimen.
Priftin is a rifamycin antibiotic used to treat and prevent tuberculosis infections.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 262139
- Generic
- Priftin
- Class
- brand-name
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Priftin is indicated for the treatment of latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) in adults and children 2 years and older at high risk for progression to active TB disease. It is also used as part of combination therapy for pulmonary TB. Common risk groups include recent TB exposures, individuals with HIV, and those with other immunocompromising conditions.
Priftin contains rifapentine, which exerts its antibacterial effect by selectively inhibiting bacterial DNA-dependent RNA polymerase. This prevents transcription of bacterial DNA to messenger RNA, ultimately stopping protein synthesis and bacterial growth. The drug is bactericidal, meaning it actively kills the bacteria rather than just preventing their reproduction.
Priftin should always be used as part of a complete TB treatment regimen, never as monotherapy, to prevent antibiotic resistance. It may cause hepatotoxicity, so liver function monitoring is recommended during treatment. Common side effects include reddish-orange discoloration of body fluids (urine, tears, sweat), which is harmless but should be discussed with patients. Rifapentine can reduce the effectiveness of many medications, including hormonal contraceptives and HIV drugs, so a complete medication review is essential before starting therapy. It is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to rifamycins.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed July 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy