Rifabutin-containing Regimens for Helicobacter pylori Infection

Abstract Background: Rising resistance to clarithromycin, metronidazole, and fluoroquinolones has narrowed the therapeutic window for empiric Helicobacter pylori eradication. Rifabutin-containing regimens have therefore re-emerged as salvage therapies and, in selected settings, as alternative first-line options because rifabutin generally retains activity against H. pylori despite macrolide or fluoroquinolone resistance. At the same time, its overlap with antitubercular drug stewardship is a major concern in tuberculosis (TB)-endemic regions.