Rifampicin is primarily used as an antibiotic to treat bacterial infections, particularly tuberculosis (TB). It is a key component of the standard TB treatment regimen, often combined with other medications like isoniazid, pyrazinamide, and ethambutol to enhance effectiveness and prevent resistance. Beyond TB, it is also employed to treat other infections such as leprosy, Legionnaires' disease, and certain types of meningitis caused by bacteria like Neisseria meningitidis. Additionally, rifampicin is used in the prevention of infections in individuals exposed to meningitis or Haemophilus influenzae type b. It is sometimes prescribed for infections associated with medical devices, such as prosthetic joints or heart valves, due to its ability to target biofilm-forming bacteria. In rare cases, it is used off-label for conditions like pruritus in patients with cholestatic liver disease. However, its use must be carefully monitored due to potential side effects and drug interactions, particularly with medications metabolized by the liver.