An Overview of Rifampin (Rifadin, Rimactane)

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Brand Name: Rifadin IV, Rimactane, Rifadin
Other Name(s): Rifampicin, Rifampicina, Rifamycin AMP
Drug Class: Opportunistic Infection and Other Drugs

Rifampin, also known as Rifadin or Rimactane, belongs to the class of medicines called antimycobacterials. Antimycobacterials prevent or treat infections caused by a certain type of bacterium, including the bacterium that causes tuberculosis (TB).

HIV/AIDS-Related Uses

Rifampin is approved by the FDA for use with other medicines to prevent or treat TB. TB is an opportunistic infection that commonly affects people with HIV or AIDS. Rifampin also can be prescribed to prevent infection in people who may have come in contact with TB or meningitis patients.

Dosage Form/Administration

Rifampin comes in capsule form that is taken by mouth and in powder form to be mixed with sterile water that is given by intravenous infusion into a vein. To make it easier for a child to take oral rifampin, the capsules can be opened and the powder mixed with a small amount of applesauce or jelly. Rifampin may also be made into an oral suspension. Oral rifampin should be taken on an empty stomach, either 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal. For a more serious infection, or in people who cannot swallow medicines, rifampin for intravenous infusion can be given by slow injection into a vein by a doctor or nurse. Rifampin also is available mixed with other anti-TB medicines. It is available combined with isoniazid in a capsule called Rifamate, or combined with isoniazid and pyrazinamide in a tablet called Rifater.

Contraindications

Individuals should tell a doctor about any medical problems before taking this medicine.

Possible Side Effects

Along with its desired effects, rifampin can cause some unwanted effects. Serious side effects of this medicine include bloody, cloudy, or large amounts of urine; flu-like symptoms (bone or muscle pain, chills, dizziness, fever, headache, shivering, and trouble breathing); skin itching, redness, or rash; unusual bleeding or bruising; unusual tiredness or weakness; vomiting or diarrhea lasting a long time; white spots on mouth or tongue; and yellowing of the eyes or skin. Individuals should tell a doctor if they have any of these side effects.Other side effects, like diarrhea, heartburn, loss of appetite, nausea, stomach cramps, and vomiting, may not be serious and may lessen or disappear with continued use of this medicine. Rifampin may change urine, stool, saliva, skin, sweat, or tears to a red or orange color; if tears are colored they may permanently stain soft contact lenses. Individuals should tell a doctor if these side effects continue or are bothersome.

Drug and Food Interactions

A doctor should be notified of any other medications also being taken, including prescription, nonprescription (over-the-counter), or herbal medications.

Clinical Trials

Click here to search ClinicalTrials.gov for trials that use Rifampin.

Manufacturer Information

Rifadin
Aventis Pharmaceuticals (HMR)
P.O. Box 9627 / 10236 Marion Park Dr
Kansas City, MO 64134-0627
Phone: 888-242-9321

Rifadin IV
Aventis Pharmaceuticals (HMR)
P.O. Box 9627 / 10236 Marion Park Dr
Kansas City, MO 64134-0627
Phone: 888-242-9321

Rimactane
Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corp
59 Route 10
East Hanover, NJ 07936
Phone: 888-669-6682