It is suggested that the antimicrobial properties of clofazimine are a result of the drug’s interaction with bacterial membrane phospholipids, which generates membrane-destabilizing effects among lysophospholipids. Consequently, the effect creates an interference in the process of cellular respiration by reducing ATP production, and thus, limiting host-interaction among and production of bacteria.

The anti-inflammatory activities of clofazimine, however, seem to be the result of the drug’s inhibition of the activation and proliferation of T-cells. Though T-cells play a crucial role in the immune response, they are often the source of inflammation when trying to combat foreign substances.