Rifampin
Rifampin is an antibiotic used to treat tuberculosis and other mycobacterial infections. It works by inhibiting bacterial RNA polymerase, preventing the bacteria from producing essential proteins and multiplying. This medication is typically used in combination with other anti-tuberculosis drugs as part of a comprehensive treatment regimen.
Rifampin is an antibiotic that treats tuberculosis by blocking bacterial RNA synthesis.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- J04AB02
- RxNorm
- 9384
- Generic
- Rifampin
- Class
- atc-j04
- Brands
- Rifadin
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- tablet, capsule, suspension, injection
- 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.
Treatment of active tuberculosis (pulmonary and extrapulmonary), latent TB infection, and other mycobacterial infections such as Mycobacterium avium complex. Often used in combination therapy for optimal effectiveness.
Rifampin binds to and inhibits DNA-dependent RNA polymerase in susceptible Mycobacterium tuberculosis organisms. This blocks bacterial transcription, preventing the synthesis of messenger RNA and ultimately halting bacterial protein production and replication.
May cause orange-red discoloration of body fluids (urine, tears, sweat). Can reduce effectiveness of oral contraceptives and many other medications due to enzyme induction. Requires combination therapy to prevent resistance. Liver function monitoring may be needed during treatment.
Official drug label
WellAlly may earn a referral fee from linked resources at no extra cost to you. Editorial content is never influenced by commercial relationships.
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