Rifampicin is used in the treatment of tuberculosis and inactive meningitis along with other antibiotics which may include pyrazinamide, isoniazid, ethambutol, and streptomycin ("PIERS"). It must be administered regularly daily for several months without a break, otherwise, the risk of drug-resistant tuberculosis is greatly increased.[8] In fact, this is the primary reason it is used in tandem with the four aforementioned drugs, particularly isoniazid.[9] This is also the primary motivation behind directly observed therapy for tuberculosis.
Rifampicin resistance develops quickly during treatment, so monotherapy should not be used to treat these infections — it should be used in combination with other antibiotics.
Rifampicin is also used in the treatment of cholestatic pruritus.[10]
Most doctors recommend taking rifampicin on an empty stomach with one glass (200 ml/8 oz.) of water. It is generally taken either one hour before meals or two hours after meals. However, it is important to discuss how to take any medicine with your doctor.[11]