azithromycin + rifampin

Azithromycin + rifampin is a combination of two antibiotics, azithromycin (a macrolide) and rifampin (a rifamycin), used together for synergistic antibacterial effects. Azithromycin inhibits bacterial protein synthesis by binding to the 50S ribosomal subunit, while rifampin inhibits bacterial DNA-dependent RNA polymerase, blocking RNA synthesis. This combination has demonstrated enhanced efficacy against certain intracellular pathogens such as Chlamydia pneumoniae and Rhodococcus equi compared to monotherapy[1][5]. It is also used in veterinary medicine for foals with R. equi infections and has been studied in experimental models of chronic osteomyelitis due to Staphylococcus aureus[2][5]. The combination may be considered in severe or refractory infections where both agents are indicated.

Brand names

ZithromaxRifadin

Other names

azithromycin + rifampinAntibiotic Treatment Trial Directed Against Chlamydia Pneumonia in Multiple Sclerosis