Rifalazil

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Rifalazil is an antibiotic that belongs to the rifamycin group. It is primarily used in the treatment of tuberculosis and other bacterial infections.

History[edit | edit source]

Rifalazil was first synthesized in the 1980s by the pharmaceutical company Hoffmann-La Roche. It was developed as a part of the company's efforts to create new antibiotics that could combat drug-resistant strains of bacteria.

Mechanism of Action[edit | edit source]

Rifalazil works by inhibiting the RNA polymerase enzyme in bacteria, which is essential for the synthesis of RNA and protein. By blocking this enzyme, the antibiotic prevents the bacteria from growing and reproducing.

Clinical Use[edit | edit source]

Rifalazil is used in the treatment of various bacterial infections, including tuberculosis, leprosy, and Legionnaires' disease. It is also used in the treatment of Chlamydia pneumoniae, a common cause of pneumonia.

Side Effects[edit | edit source]

Like all antibiotics, Rifalazil can cause side effects. The most common side effects include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. In rare cases, it can cause more serious side effects such as liver damage or allergic reactions.

Resistance[edit | edit source]

Bacterial resistance to Rifalazil is a growing concern. Resistance occurs when bacteria evolve mechanisms to survive exposure to the antibiotic. This can occur through the mutation of the RNA polymerase enzyme, rendering Rifalazil ineffective.

See Also[edit | edit source]


This article is a stub.

You can help WikiMD by registering to expand it.
Editing is available only to registered and verified users.
WikiMD is a comprehensive, free health & wellness encyclopedia.



WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD