Rifabutin is primarily used in the treatment and prevention of mycobacterial infections, particularly tuberculosis (TB) and Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC) infections. It is often prescribed for patients who cannot tolerate or are resistant to other first-line TB medications like rifampin. Rifabutin is also utilized in HIV-positive individuals to prevent MAC infections, which are common in immunocompromised patients. Additionally, it is sometimes employed in the treatment of Helicobacter pylori infections as part of combination therapy to eradicate the bacteria. Its ability to inhibit bacterial RNA synthesis makes it effective against a range of mycobacterial and other bacterial infections.