Rifadin (Rifampin)

What is Rifadin?

Rifadin is a rifamycin antibiotic that is active against bacterial infections in the body.

What is Rifadin used for?

Rifadin is indicated for the treatment and prevention of tuberculosis and other bacterial infections. It may also be used for elimination of bacteria from nose and throat that can cause meningitis.

However, it should be noted that it is only meant for treatment of bacterial infections and does not treat viral infections (such as flu, common cold, etc).

How does Rifadin work?

Rifadin works by preventing the bacteria to spread in the body.

How to use Rifadin

Use Rifadin in the manner prescribed by the doctor. Read the instruction leaflet very carefully before taking the drug. Do not take the medicine for longer period or in larger amount than prescribed.

Rifadin is taken usually taken on an empty stomach with a full glass of water. You can take it either 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals; or as directed by your doctor. If you are unable to take the whole capsule, you can open the capsule and take the contents in a spoon. It is strongly recommended to drink the entire mixture immediately. Take antacids 1 hour before taking Rifadin, if you have to. The dosing schedule varies with the severity of the condition and can even be given in combination with other antibiotics. Continue taking Rifadin even if symptoms disappear, to completely remove the bacteria from the body.

Take the medication at evenly spaced intervals for best results.

Rifadin warnings and precautions

Do not take Rifadin if you are allergic to any of its ingredients. The medication may contain certain ingredients which are inactive and may cause allergic reactions or other problems.

Before using Rifadin, share your medical history with your doctor especially if you suffer from liver problems, porphyria, HIV or history of alcohol. Rifadin can cause drowsiness and dizziness, so do not drive or perform any activity that requires attention.

Pregnant and lactating women should not take this medication unless directed by the doctor.

What do I do if I have missed a Rifadin dose?

If you have missed a Rifadin dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue the routine.

What do I do if I have taken a Rifadin overdose?

If you have taken an overdose of Rifadin, consult your doctor right away.

Rifadin interactions

Some drugs are known to interact with Rifadin when used in tandem with it. The doctor should be informed of any other medication that you are taking, especially acetaminophen (Tylenol),  a blood thinner such as warfarin (Coumadin), a barbiturate such as phenobarbital (Solfoton), diazepam (Valium), a beta-blocker such as atenolol, bisoprolol, labetalol, others such as clofibrate,  steroids such as prednisone, fluticasone, mometasone, or dexamethasone; HIV medicines such as delavirdine, saquinavir, ritonavir, nelfinavir; ketoconazole (Nizoral), itraconazole (Sporanox), or fluconazole (Diflucan); methadone, phenytoin, ethotoin, and mephenytoin, birth control pills or estrogen hormone replacement, heart medicines such as digoxin, disopyramide, quinidine, mexiletine, tocainide, verapamil, or sulfa drugs; diabetes medication you take by mouth, cyclosporine, theophylline.

Do not start taking any new medicine without consulting your doctor.

Rifadin side effects

Side effects from Rifadin include itching, dark urine, clay-colored stools, fever, chills, body ache, bruising, bleeding, weakness, decreased urination, nausea, flu symptoms, joint pain or swelling, stomach pain, loss of appetite, or jaundice. If you experience any of these side effects, contact your doctor immediately.

Tired feeling or  red or orange colored urine, stools, tears, sweat, or saliva are some less serious side effects of Rifadin.