Rifampin is an antibiotic that eliminates the bacteria that cause tuberculosis (TB). It is generally used in combination with
other antituberculosis agents to prevent bacteria from becoming resistant to the drug.
Rifampin may also be used to treat other types of infections.
HOW should this drug be taken ?
Rifampin is commercially available as capsules and is usually taken once a day. Your dosage regimen is . Rifampin works best on an empty stomach -- one hour before or two hours after a meal.
Rarely, the intravenous form of rifampin may be used (e.g. in patients who have problems absorbing the oral form of rifampin). The intravenous form of rifampin is an investigational drug in Canada.
What should you do if you FORGET a dose?
If you miss a dose of rifampin, take it as soon as possible. If you remember your missed dose close to the time for your
next dose, then take only the regularly scheduled dose. Do not double your dose.
What ADVERSE EFFECTS can this drug cause ? What should you do about them?
Rifampin may cause a red-orange colouring of urine, stool, saliva, sweat, and tears. This effect is harmless, but may cause permanent staining of soft contact lenses.
The most common adverse effects of rifampin are heartburn, nausea, vomiting, anorexia, stomach cramps, gas, and
diarrhea. Although rifampin works best on an empty stomach, adverse stomach effects may be relieved by taking it with
a snack. If these effects remain bothersome, please call the clinic or discuss them at your next visit.
Rifampin may cause increases in various blood tests measuring liver function. Blood tests will be done regularly to
monitor for any changes in your liver function. In rare cases, rifampin can cause jaundice (yellowing of the skin). If this occurs, please call the clinic.
Blood tests will also be done to monitor for any changes in your kidney function.
Occasionally, other adverse effects such as headache, drowsiness, and muscle pain may occur. If these effects occur
and are bothersome, please call the clinic or discuss them at your next visit.
In rare cases, rifampin can cause decreases in red blood cells (needed to help carry oxygen around your body), white
blood cells (needed to help fight infection), and platelets (needed to help your blood clot). Blood tests will be done
regularly to check for any changes. Please call the clinic if you notice any symptoms of fatigue, shortness of breath, fever, chills or easy bruising.
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 ?
You should not stop taking this medication, even if you feel better and have no symptoms, unless you are told to stop by
your doctor. Be careful about drinking alcoholic beverages as alcohol can increase the adverse liver effects sometimes
caused by rifampin. Inform your health care team if you have a pre-existing liver condition.
Rifampin can interact with other drugs. Therefore, inform your doctor and pharmacist about all the prescription and
non-prescription medications you are taking, and do not start taking other medications without discussing it first.
As rifampin can decrease the effectiveness of oral contraceptives, an alternative or additional birth control method should be used while taking this medication.
Please inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
How should this medication be STORED?
Rifampin should be stored in a cool (15-30oC), dry place. It should be kept out of the reach of children.
Do not store in your bathroom as heat and moisture may cause the medication to lose potency.
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.
