Leprosy Mailing List – May 7^th, 2007

 

Ref.:     Rifampin in patients with reaction

From:   Stryjewska B. M., Baton Rouge, LA, USA

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Dear Dr Noto,

 

You mentioned in first letter (LML May 1^st, 2007), that your patient is taking Rifampin and steroids daily.  Rifampin is known to induce certain cytochrome P450 enzymes.  Administration of Rifampin with drugs that undergo biotransformation through these metabolic pathways may accelerate elimination of coadministered drugs.  Lack of clinical response may be due to decreased effect of corticosteroids.  In patients with reaction we use Rifampin only in monthly doses.

 

Best regards,

 

Barbara M. Stryjewska, M.D.

 

Director of Medical Services

National Hansen's Disease Programs

1770 Physicians Park Drive

Baton Rouge, LA  70816

http://www.hrsa.gov/hansens

Phone:  225-756-3709

Fax: 225-756-3706

1-800-642-2477

bstryjewska@hrsa.gov