Rifampicin

Rifampicin is active against a wide range of microorganisms. Apart from its important role as an antituberculous and antilepromatous agent, rifampicin is used to eradicate nasopharyngeal carriage of Neisseria meningitidis and Haemophilus influenzae follow­ing meningitis, and as an adjunct to doxycycline (in brucellosis), and fusidic acid (in serious staphylococcal infection). Causes red discoloration of body fluids and occa­sional influenza-like symptoms and hepatotoxicity. interferes with oral contraceptive metabolism. Due to its primary value as an antimycobacterial agent, its use for other purposes should be restricted.