Rifampin capsules
To return to the main entry click here.
What are rifampin capsules?
RIFAMPIN is an antibiotic and is used for the prevention or treatment of tuberculosis infections. It is usually used in combination with at least one other agent that treats tuberculosis. Rifampin may be given alone for treating latent tuberculosis infections. Rifampin also treats other infections, including meningitis.
What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
• If you frequently drink alcohol-containing beverages
• liver disease, including hepatitis
• porphyria
• previously experienced side effects to isoniazid (INH) treatment
• wear contact lens
• an unusual or allergic reaction to rifampin, rifabutin, other medicines, foods, dyes or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding
How should I take this medicine?
Take rifampin capsules by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Swallow capsules whole with a full glass of water. It is best to take rifampin on an empty stomach; 1 to 2 hours before food, or at least 2 hours after food. If rifampin upsets your stomach you can take it with food. Opening the capsule and mixing the contents with food, such as applesauce, is an easy way to give to children. Take your doses at regular intervals and try not to miss any doses. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Finish the full course prescribed by your prescriber or health care professional even if you think your condition is better. Do not stop taking except on your prescriber's advice.
Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.What drug(s) may interact with rifampin?
Many medicines can interact with rifampin. Make sure to tell your prescriber you are taking rifampin before starting any new medicines and to discuss all the medicines you are taking before starting rifampin therapy. The list below contains some, but not all, of the drugs that can interact with rifampin. If have any questions about the medicines you are taking talk to your prescriber or pharmacist.
• acetaminophen
• alcohol
• bosentan
• caspofungin
• certain medicines for diabetes
• clofibrate
• corticosteroids such as prednisone
• cyclosporine
• digoxin
• doxercalciferol
• doxycycline
• entacapone
• female hormones, including contraceptive or birth control pills
• fluconazole
• imatinib, STI-571
• itraconazole
• levomethadyl
• levothyroxine
• medicines for lowering cholesterol (example: atorvastatin, lovastatin, simvastatin)
• medicines for the treatment of HIV infection or AIDS
• methadone
• paricalcitol
• sildenafil
• sirolimus
• some medicines for heart rhythm problems
• some medicines for high blood pressure, chest pain, or other heart problems
• some medicines for seizures (convulsions)
• some medicines for anxiety, psychosis or problems with sleep (insomnia)
• some prescription pain medications
• tacrolimus
• theophylline
• voriconazole
• warfarin
Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.
What should I watch for while taking rifampin?
Rifampin can cause serious liver problems, especially if you are also taking pyrazinamide (PZA). Make sure you understand the risks for liver problems and how to identify the symptoms. If you have any questions, talk with your prescriber or other health care provider. Visit your prescriber or health care professional for regular checks and report any serious side effects promptly.
Keep taking your rifampin even if you feel better. You may need to take this medicine for an extended period of time for a complete cure.
Avoid alcoholic drinks while you are taking rifampin. Drinking alcohol during treatment with rifampin increases the risk of serious liver problems.
Birth control pills (contraceptive pills) may not work properly while you are taking this medicine. Use a different method of birth control while you are taking rifampin.
This medicine can color your urine, feces (stool), perspiration (sweat), tears, sputum, skin or saliva reddish-orange to reddish-brown. This color can last for as long as you take rifampin and is not a cause for alarm. Talk to your prescriber or health care professional about it if it concerns you. However, this color in tears may permanently stain soft contact lenses. It is better not to wear soft contact lenses while you are taking rifampin.
If you are going to have surgery, tell your prescriber or health care professional that you are taking rifampin.
What side effects may I notice from taking rifampin?
Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible:
• bruising or pinpoint red spots on the skin
• difficulty breathing
• fainting spells or dizziness which does not go away
• fever or chills, mouth sores, or sore throat
• reduced amount of urine passed
• skin rash, itching, hives
• stomach pain
• unusual tiredness or weakness
• yellowing of the eyes or skin
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
• diarrhea
• discoloration of soft contact lens
• dizziness
• headache
• loss of appetite
• nausea, vomiting
• reddish-orange to reddish-brown coloration of urine, stools, saliva, tears, and sweat
Where can I keep my medicine?
Keep out of the reach of children in a container that small children cannot open.
Store at room temperature between 15—30 degrees C (59—86 degrees F). Protect from light and moisture. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.
Important Disclaimer: The drug information provided here is for educational purposes only. It is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the diagnosis, treatment and advice of a medical professional. This drug information does not cover all possible uses, precautions, side effects and interactions. It should not be construed to indicate that this or any drug is safe for you. Consult your medical professional for guidance before using any prescription or over the counter drugs.
