Tuberculosis Medication: Rifampin

Tuberculosis Medication: Rifampin
Tuberculosis (TB) is an infectious disease that affects mainly the lungs. TB-causing bacteria are spread from one person to another through tiny droplets released through sneezing and coughing. According to the American Lung Association (ALA, 2022) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC, 2020), isoniazid rifampin is the most common medication for treating and preventing TB.
Scholars like Menzies et al. (2018), in an open trial across nine countries, have conducted research to establish the efficacy and safety of rifampin compared to other treatments like isoniazid. Outcomes indicated that a 4-month regimen of rifampin is not inferior to a 9-month regimen of isoniazid and is associated with a higher rate of treatment completion and better safety outcomes. Regardless, the drug has side effects that include dizziness, flushing, itching, temporary skin discoloration, saliva, teeth, tears, stool, and sweat. Monitoring involves evaluating the severity and lasting nature of side effects and evaluation of coagulation tests during treatment. The drug accelerates the metabolism of medications like oral contraceptives, glucocorticoids, barbiturates, and methadone (Calaquian & De, 2020). Use alongside these medications, therefore, should be considered by the physician. The working mechanism involves the inhibition of bacterial DNA-dependent RNA polymerase. It, therefore, facilitates blocking the elongating RNA, reducing the severity of TB infection.
Genetic consideration may be necessary for the personalization of ...