Rifamycin is primarily used as an antibiotic to treat bacterial infections, especially tuberculosis and leprosy. It works by inhibiting bacterial DNA-dependent RNA polymerase, blocking RNA synthesis and effectively stopping bacterial growth and replication. It is also used for the prevention of meningococcal meningitis in close contacts. Due to its activity against gram-positive bacteria and some gram-negative organisms, it is sometimes used for prophylaxis in surgical procedures. Rifamycin derivatives, such as rifampin, are commonly prescribed in combination therapy to reduce the risk of antibiotic resistance. Additionally, it is used in topical formulations for skin infections, eye drops for ocular infections, and in veterinary medicine.