Kentucky Medication Aide (KMA) State Practice Exam

Which drug classes do INH and Rifampin belong to?

1. Antifungals

2. Antibiotics

3. Atypical antipsychotics

4. NSAIDs

The correct answer is: Antibiotics

INH, or isoniazid, and Rifampin are both classified as antibiotics. These medications are primarily used in the treatment of tuberculosis (TB), an infectious disease caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Isoniazid works by inhibiting the synthesis of mycobacterial cell walls, which is crucial for the survival of the bacteria. On the other hand, Rifampin acts by inhibiting bacterial RNA synthesis, which prevents the bacteria from replicating and producing proteins necessary for their growth and survival. Combining these two antibiotics is a common practice in TB therapy to ensure effectiveness and reduce the risk of developing drug-resistant strains of the bacteria. Their classification as antibiotics explains their mechanism of action and therapeutic application in managing bacterial infections, particularly tuberculosis.