Which of the following drug used in treating leprosy acts as a bactericidal agent?
Dapsone, rifampicin and clofazimine are WHO recommended drugs used in the treatment of leprosy. Among these only rifampicin is bactericidal. Rifampin binds to the beta subunit of bacterial DNA-dependent RNA polymerase and thereby inhibits RNA synthesis. It is bactericidal, it penetrates most tissues and into phagocytic cells. Indications: Treatment of tuberculosis along with other antimycobacterial drugs. Used to eliminate meningococcal carriage Leprosy Prophylaxis in contacts of children with Haemophilus influenzae type b disease In combination with a second agent is used to eradicate staphylococcal carriage In serious staphylococcal infections such as osteomyelitis and prosthetic valve endocarditis Ref: Gelber R.H. (2012). Chapter 166. Leprosy. In D.L. Longo, A.S. Fauci, D.L. Kasper, S.L. Hauser, J.L. Jameson, J. Loscalzo (Eds), Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine, 18e.
Clofazimine
Dapsone
Rifampicin
Ethionamide