Rifampin (By mouth)

Introduction:

Rifampin (rif-AM-pin)

Treats tuberculosis (TB) and other types of infections.

Brand Name(s):

Rifadin, Rimactane

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

How to Use This Medicine:

Capsule, Tablet, Liquid

• Your doctor will tell you how much of this medicine to use and how often. Do not use more medicine or use it more often than your doctor tells you to.
• Rifampin should be taken on an empty stomach, 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal. It is important to take rifampin on a regular schedule.
• Shake the oral liquid well just before using.
• Measure the oral liquid medicine with a marked measuring spoon, oral syringe, or medicine cup.
• Keep taking this medicine even if you are feeling better. Your doctor will tell you when you can stop taking it.

If a dose is missed:

• Take the missed dose as soon as possible.
• If it is almost time for your next regular dose, wait until then to take your medicine and skip the missed dose.
• You should not use two doses at the same time.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

• Store at room temperature in a closed container, away from heat, light, and moisture.
• Ask your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of any outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Do not drink alcohol while taking this medicine.
• Rifampin interacts with many other medicines. Make sure your doctor knows all of the medicines that you are taking before you take rifampin. The doses of the other medicines may have to be changed while you are taking rifampin.
• Birth control pills may not work if you take them with this medicine. A different kind of birth control should be used; check with your doctor.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor before taking this medicine.
• Soft contact lenses may be permanently stained by rifampin. You may not want to wear them while taking this medicine.
• Be sure to see your doctor regularly while you are taking this medicine. Reschedule any appointments you miss.
• Your urine, stool, saliva (spit), sweat, and tears may turn a red-orange color. This is normal when you take this medicine.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Yellowing of skin or eyes
• Fever
• Numbness, pain, or tingling in arms or legs
• Unsteadiness or weakness
• Blurred vision or eye pain
• Bloody or very dark urine
• Unusual bleeding or bruising

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Diarrhea
• Stomach upset or cramping
• Loss of appetite

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor: