Evaluation of the effect of rifampicin on the biophysical properties of the membranes: significance for therapeutic and side effects.

•The interactions of rifampicin and macrophage membrane models were evaluated.•Several biophysical techniques were executed to assess drug-membrane interaction.•The results confirm that the interactions of RIF with membranes are more pronounced under in vitro pathological conditions.•This work could lead to the development of new anti-TB drugs with higher efficacy and fewer toxic effects.