Rifampicin

Common indications

• Tuberculosis

 

Mechanisms of action

• Rifampicin inhibits bacterial DNA-dependent RNA synthesis by inhibiting bacterial DNA-dependent RNA polymerase.

 

Important adverse effects

• Orange-red discolouration of bodily fluids (urine, sweat, tears)

 

Warnings

 

Important interactions

• Cytochrome P450 induction: this increases metabolism of some drugs (e.g. warfarin) and reduces their efficacy.