Which of the following drug combinations is the standard treatment for multibacillary leprosy?
Solution
Correct Answer: Option A
- The correct treatment for multibacillary leprosy is Rifampin + Dapsone + Clofazimine because multibacillary leprosy requires a multidrug regimen to prevent resistance and effectively kill Mycobacterium leprae.
- Rifampin is a potent bactericidal agent, Dapsone is bacteriostatic, and Clofazimine has anti-inflammatory and bactericidal effects.
- This combination ensures better bacterial clearance and reduces relapse rates.
- The other options lack one or more essential drugs for effective multibacillary treatment.
Reference: Harrison’s Principles of Internal Medicine, 20th Ed., Infectious Diseases, Chapter 190, p. 1150