What does the letter "R" in the TB mnemonic stand for?

The letter "R" in the TB mnemonic stands for Rifampin. Rifampin is a key antibiotic used in the treatment of tuberculosis (TB) and is part of the standard regimen for managing this infectious disease. It works by inhibiting bacterial RNA synthesis, effectively reducing the proliferation of Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Its significance in TB treatment is reflected in various treatment protocols, as it’s typically administered alongside other medications to ensure efficacy and to mitigate the risk of developing drug resistance.

While the other options present different antibiotics that also have anti-TB properties or are related to tuberculosis treatment, Rifampin is the widely recognized drug associated with the "R" in the mnemonic specifically designed to recall first-line TB medications.