Indications  

Rifadin is a prescription medicine used to treat or prevent tuberculosis (TB). 

Rifadin may also be prescribed to eliminate Neisseria meningitidis from the nasopharynx in asymptomatic carriers, a bacterium that can cause meningitis. However, it should not be used to treat active meningococcal infections as it may lead to the development of resistant bacteria. 

As an antimycobacterial agent, Rifadin works by inhibiting bacterial growth. It exclusively treats bacterial infections and does not affect viral infections like the common cold or flu. Inappropriate antibiotic usage can compromise its effectiveness for future infections. 

Uses and Dosage 

Before starting treatment with Rifadin and with each prescription refill, carefully review its medication guide and patient information leaflet. Should you have any questions, consult your physician or pharmacist. 

The dosage and length of treatment with Rifadin may vary per individual based on medical condition, weight, and response to the treatment. 

Typically, this antibiotic is taken once or twice daily as prescribed by the doctor. It should be taken with a full glass of water on an empty stomach, either one hour before or two hours after a meal. 

If stomach upset occurs, take it with food. Antacids can also provide relief. However, avoid taking aluminum-containing antacids (e.g., Maalox, Mylanta) within 1 hour of taking Rifadin, as they may interfere with the effectiveness of the medication. 

Patients who cannot swallow Rifadin capsules may open them and sprinkle the contents over applesauce or jelly. The entire mixture must be consumed immediately; do not prepare it in advance for later use. 

To achieve optimal results, take Rifadin at regular intervals around the same time(s) daily. Refrain from altering the prescribed dosage, frequency, and duration of intake without consulting your doctor. 

Complete the full prescribed course of this antibiotic, even if symptoms improve before it is finished. Stopping it too early may cause the infection to return. 

Side Effects 

Listed below are the potential adverse effects of Rifadin. Notify your doctor right away if any of them last or get worse. 

Common Side Effects 

• Diarrhea 
• Drowsiness 
• Gas 
• Headache 
• Upset stomach or vomiting 
• Loss of appetite 
• Heartburn 
• Stomach cramps 
• Fatigue or weakness 
• Change in color of body fluids to orange or red 

Serious Side Effects 

• Signs of kidney problems: 
  • Unable to pass urine 
  • Change in urine volume 
  • Blood in the urine 
  • Significant weight gain 
• Dizziness or fainting 
• Flu-like symptoms 
• Fever, chills, sore throat, unexplained bruising or bleeding, or extreme fatigue or weakness 
• Swollen glands 
• Joint pain or swelling 
• Muscle pain or weakness 
• Shortness of breath 
• Chest pain 
• Cough 
• Excessive sweating 
• Irregular heartbeat 
• Swelling in the arms or legs 
• Purple spots or redness of the skin 
• Changes in balance 
• Confusion, difficulty focusing, or behavioral changes 
• Changes in menstrual periods 
• Changes in eyesight, eye pain, or severe eye irritation 
• Changes in tooth color (possibly long-lasting) 

Inform your doctor right away if you experience any of the serious side effects listed above. 

A rare but serious complication, C diff–associated diarrhea (CDAD), may lead to a severe bowel problem (colitis). Seek immediate medical attention for stomach pain, cramps, or very loose, watery, or bloody stools. Consult your doctor before treating diarrhea. 

Allergic Reactions 

Although rare, a severe allergic reaction to Rifadin may occur. Seek prompt medical attention if you experience indications of an allergic reaction, such as: 

• Rash 
• Hives 
• Itching 
• Red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin (with or without fever) 
• Wheezing 
• Tightness in the chest or throat 
• Difficulty breathing, swallowing, or talking 
• Unusual hoarseness 
• Swelling mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat 

Not all side effects of Rifadin are included in this list. Notify your doctor promptly if any unlisted effects are experienced. 

Cautions 

Before taking Rifadin, inform your doctor if you have any known allergies, particularly to rifampin, other rifamycins (e.g., rifabutin), or other medications. 

Consult your pharmacist for further details about Rifadin, as it may contain inactive ingredients that may cause allergic reactions or other complications. 

To ensure Rifadin is safe for you, disclose to your physician your medical background, especially if you have a history of: 

• Diabetes 
• Liver problems (e.g., hepatitis) 
• HIV infection 
• Alcohol use or abuse 

During the use of Rifadin, inform your doctor or pharmacist about any changes in medications you are taking, including prescription/non-prescription drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements, as Rifadin can interact with numerous medicines. 

Rifadin accelerates the elimination of other medications from the body, potentially affecting their effectiveness. Some of the drugs that may be affected include: 

• Atovaquone 
• Certain anti-cancer drugs (e.g., irinotecan) 
• Certain azole antifungals (e.g., itraconazole) 
• Certain calcium channel blockers (e.g., nifedipine) 
• Certain products for chronic hepatitis C (e.g., sofosbuvir) 
• Cobicistat 
• Lurasidone 
• HIV NNRTIs (e.g., etravirine, nevirapine) 
• Praziquantel 
• HIV protease inhibitors (e.g., atazanavir, darunavir) 

Rifadin may reduce the effectiveness of live bacterial vaccines, including the typhoid vaccine. Before receiving any immunizations/vaccinations, inform your healthcare professional about your use of this antibiotic. 

Inform lab personnel and all your doctors about your use of Rifadin, as it may disrupt specific laboratory tests (e.g., urine screening for opiates, blood serum folate/vitamin B12), leading to inaccurate results. It can also impede the elimination of certain chemicals used in gallbladder tests.  

Inform your doctor if you wear soft contact lenses. While using Rifadin, wearing contact lenses may result in permanent red stains on them. 

Rifadin can reduce the effectiveness of hormonal birth control methods like pills, patches, or rings, potentially leading to pregnancy. Consult your doctor or pharmacist about using reliable backup birth control while taking this medication.  

Furthermore, inform your doctor if you experience any new spotting or breakthrough bleeding, as these could indicate that your birth control is not working effectively. 

Rifadin should only be used in pregnancy when necessary, as it may increase the risk of bleeding. Notify your doctor immediately if bleeding occurs in your newborn and consult them about the advantages and disadvantages of using this medication. 

Rifampin can be transmitted through breast milk but is not expected to cause harm to a nursing baby. Consult with your healthcare provider prior to breastfeeding.