Rifapentine
Rifapentine is a cyclopentyl rifamycin antibiotic that belongs to the antimycobacterial drug class. It is primarily used in combination with other medications for the treatment of pulmonary tuberculosis caused by susceptible strains of Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Rifapentine works by inhibiting bacterial DNA-dependent RNA polymerase, preventing bacterial replication.
Rifapentine is an antimycobacterial antibiotic used to treat tuberculosis by inhibiting bacterial RNA synthesis.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- J04AB05
- RxNorm
- 35617
- Generic
- Rifapentine
- Class
- atc-j04
- Brands
- Priftin
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- tablet
- 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.
Rifapentine is indicated for the treatment of pulmonary tuberculosis in combination with other antimycobacterial agents, particularly in the intensive phase of therapy for drug-susceptible TB.
Rifapentine is a cyclopentyl rifamycin that inhibits bacterial DNA-dependent RNA polymerase, blocking transcription of bacterial DNA to mRNA and thereby preventing bacterial protein synthesis and replication.
Rifapentine should only be used in combination with other anti-tuberculosis agents to prevent resistance development. It may cause hepatotoxicity, discoloration of body fluids (red-orange tint), and can interact with many medications including HIV drugs and hormonal contraceptives. Regular monitoring of liver function is recommended during treatment.
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