Rifabutin is an anti-infective medication used to prevent or treat Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC) infection. When
used to treat MAC, it is usually used in combination with other agents.
Rifabutin may also be used to treat other types of infections.
HOW should this drug be taken ?
When used to prevent or treat MAC, the usual dose is 300mg once daily. It can be taken as 150mg twice daily to
minimize stomach upset. In some cases, your dose may be adjusted to counteract a drug interaction.
Rifabutin is supplied as a 150mg capsule which should be swallowed whole. The capsules can be taken with or without food.
What should you do if you FORGET a dose?
If you miss a dose of rifabutin, take it as soon as possible. If you remember your missed dose close to the time for your next dose, do not double your dose. Continue with your regular dosing schedule.
What ADVERSE EFFECTS can this drug cause ? What should you do about them?
Most side effects of rifabutin are mild, and may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, rash, and headache.
Rifabutin causes a brown-orange discolouration of urine, feces, saliva, sputum, perspiration, tears, and skin. This side
effect does not usually require medical attention. However, if you wear contact lenses, you may consider wearing glasses instead to prevent discolouration of your contact lenses.
Serious effects of rifabutin that may occur include neutropenia and leukopenia (a reduced number of white blood cells so
that you have a higher risk of bacterial infection), or anemia (a reduced number of red blood cells that can make you feel
tired and short of breath). In rare cases it can also cause thrombocytopenia (a reduced number of platelets so that you
bleed or bruise more easily), or changes in liver function. Blood tests will be done regularly to check for any changes in these values.
Rifabutin may cause uveitis (an inflammation of the eye causing pain, redness and loss of vision). It may also cause joint stiffness or swelling.
IT IS IMPORTANT THAT YOU KEEP YOUR DOCTOR AND LABORATORY APPOINTMENTS, SO THAT YOUR PROGRESS CAN BE ASSESSED REGULARLY.
IF YOU ARE EXPERIENCING ANY ADVERSE EFFECTS, PLEASE DISCUSS THEM WITH YOUR HEALTH CARE TEAM.
What other PRECAUTIONS should you follow while using this drug ?
This medication can interact with other drugs, especially those which are metabolized by the liver. Drugs which may
interact include clarithromycin, fluconazole, itraconazole, indinavir, saquinavir, ritonavir, and phenytoin. In some cases,
your dose of rifabutin may be adjusted or your medications changed to counteract a drug interaction.
The safety of rifabutin has not been established during pregnancy or breast feeding. Please discuss this with your doctor or pharmacist if this is a concern.
How should this medication be STORED?
Rifabutin should be stored in a cool (15-30°C) dry place well out of the reach of children. Do not store in your bathroom. Heat and moisture may cause the medicine to lose effectiveness.
IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS OR CONCERNS ABOUT THIS MEDICATION, PLEASE DISCUSS THEM WITH YOUR PHARMACIST OR PHYSICIAN OR NURSE.
WRITE QUESTIONS OR CONCERNS DOWN TO ENSURE THEY ARE ADDRESSED.
A pharmacist at ___________________ is available to answer questions.
The telephone number is ___________. Please ask for ____________________.
