Rifadin (Rifampin)

Indications

Rifadin is a prescription medication used to treat tuberculosis infection and leprosy in the lungs. It can be used in combination with other medicines to prevent the spread of meningitis in people who carry the bacteria but are not sick with the disease. It contains an active ingredient called Rifampin. Rifampin belongs to the class of medications called antibiotics.

Rifampin works by interfering with the production of genetic material needed for the bacteria to reproduce, which inhibits their growth and ability to replicate. This reduces the production of more bacteria as well as killing the bacteria.

Uses and Dosage

Rifampin comes in capsule form to be taken orally on an empty stomach. It should be taken at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal, as directed by your doctor, usually once or twice daily. The capsule should be taken with a full glass of water (8 ounces/240 milliliters) unless your doctor advises otherwise. If you need to take antacids, wait at least 1 hour after taking rifampin. In case you are unable to swallow the capsule, you may open it and sprinkle the contents on applesauce or jelly and consume the mixture immediately. Do not prepare a supply for future use.

The dosage and duration of treatment depend on your medical condition, weight, and response to the treatment. Follow your doctor's instructions for the safe and effective use of Rifampin.

• The usual adult dose of rifampin to treat tuberculosis is 600 mg taken once daily. Doses for children are based on body weight and calculated as 10 mg to 20 mg per kilogram of body weight to a maximum of 600 mg daily.
• To prevent bacterial meningitis, rifampin is taken as 600 mg every 12 hours for 2 days or 600 mg daily for 4 days, depending on the type of bacteria that is believed to cause the infection. Doses for children are based on body weight.

Side effect

Common Side Effects of Rifadin (Rifampin):

• Abdominal cramps
• Diarrhea
• Dizziness
• Drowsiness
• Fatigue
• Flushing
• Headache
• Heartburn
• Irregular menstrual periods
• Itchiness
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea
• Reddish-orange discoloration of sweat, tears, urine
• Skin flushing
• Skin rash
• Sore mouth or tongue
• Tooth discoloration
• Vomiting

Serious Side Effects of Rifadin (Rifampin):

• Confusion
• Difficulty concentrating
• Flu-like symptoms (e.g., fever, chills, dizziness, difficulty breathing, unusual arm or leg pain)
• Hallucinations
• Signs of clotting problems (e.g., unusual nosebleeds, bruising, blood in urine, coughing blood, bleeding gums, cuts that do not stop bleeding)
• Signs of kidney problems (e.g., decreased urine production, swelling, fatigue, abdominal pain)
• Symptoms of anemia (low red blood cells; e.g., dizziness, pale skin, unusual tiredness or weakness, shortness of breath)
• Symptoms of liver problems (e.g., nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, weight loss, yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes, dark urine, pale stools)
• Vision changes

Form and Strength

Rifadin (Rifampin) is available in the following forms and strength:

Rifadin: Capsule

• 150 mg
• 300 mg

Rifampin: Capsule

• 150 mg

Caution

• Rifadin can cause allergic reactions in some people. If you experience symptoms such as hives, difficulty breathing or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, seek medical attention immediately.
• Rifadin can cause liver problems, particularly in people with pre-existing liver disease or a history of liver problems. Symptoms of liver damage include yellowing of the skin or eyes, abdominal pain or tenderness, nausea, and fatigue.
• Rifadin can interact with other medications such as birth control pills, blood thinners, and HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) medications, among others. It is important to tell your doctor about all medications you are taking before beginning a course of Rifadin.
• Rifadin can increase the risk of developing fungal infections, particularly in people with weakened immune systems.
• Rifadin can cause nerve problems such as tingling, numbness, and muscle weakness, particularly in people with pre-existing nerve damage or a history of nerve problems.
• Rifadin can worsen symptoms of leprosy if a reaction to the medication called the "Lucio Phenomenon" occurs.
• Rifadin may cause changes in vision, including blurred or altered vision or changes in color perception. These symptoms may be reversible once the medication is stopped, inform your doctor if you experience any vision changes while taking Rifadin.
• Rifadin may be harmful to a developing fetus and should not be used during pregnancy unless specifically directed by a doctor. It is also not known if Rifadin passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby, therefore breastfeeding while taking Rifadin is not recommended.
• Rifadin can cause kidney damage, particularly in people with pre-existing kidney disease or a history of kidney problems. Symptoms of kidney damage include decreased urine output, swelling in the legs or ankles, and fatigue.
• Avoid alcohol consumption while taking Rifadin, as it can increase the risk of liver damage.
• Dosage adjustments of Rifadin may be necessary in individuals with liver or kidney disease, or in those taking other medications that can interact with Rifadin.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What happens if I miss a dose of Rifadin?

If you miss a dose of Rifadin, take it as soon as you remember. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

What should I avoid while taking Rifadin?

Avoid alcohol consumption while taking Rifadin, as it can increase the risk of liver damage.

How long should I take Rifadin for?

The length of treatment with Rifadin depends on the type and severity of the infection being treated. It is important to complete the full course of treatment as directed by a healthcare professional.

Can I drink alcohol while taking Rifadin?

Avoid alcohol consumption while taking Rifadin, as it can increase the risk of liver damage.

Can Rifadin be taken on an empty stomach?

Rifadin can be taken on an empty stomach, but it is recommended to take it with food to help prevent stomach upset.

Resources

• https://www.medbroadcast.com/drug/getdrug/rifadin
• https://www.goodrx.com/rifampin/what-is
• https://www.drugs.com/cdi/rifadin.html
• https://www.news-medical.net/drugs/Rifadin-Oral.aspx
• https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-5662/rifadin-oral/details
• https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=036ab68e-5085-4edc-bd83-784b43d64eab