Rifampicin
Reading File
Finding Sources
Searching PubMed
rifampicin
Searching the Web
rifampicin drug information FDA label warnings interactions
Rifampicin (also called rifampin) is a rifamycin antibiotic used mainly as part of combination therapy for tuberculosis (TB). It is also used in selected infections such as leprosy, meningococcal carriage, and some staphylococcal prosthetic-device infections.
- Mechanism: inhibits bacterial DNA-dependent RNA polymerase, stopping RNA synthesis. It is bactericidal against susceptible organisms.
- Resistance: develops rapidly if used alone for active TB, so it must be combined with other effective drugs.
- Characteristic effect: harmless orange-red discoloration of urine, sweat, saliva, and tears. It can permanently stain soft contact lenses.
- Important adverse effects: nausea, rash, flu-like syndrome especially with intermittent use, thrombocytopenia rarely, and hepatotoxicity. Seek prompt care for jaundice, dark urine, persistent vomiting, severe fatigue, abdominal pain, or extensive rash.
- Major interactions: a potent inducer of hepatic drug-metabolizing enzymes and transporters. It can substantially lower the effectiveness of oral contraceptives, warfarin, many antiretrovirals, azole antifungals, some antiseizure drugs, transplant medicines, and many other medicines. Medication review is essential before starting it.
- Monitoring: clinicians assess liver-risk factors and monitor clinically, with liver tests when indicated, particularly in liver disease or when other hepatotoxic drugs are used.
FDA labeling warns that severe liver injury, including fatalities, can occur, especially in people with underlying liver disease or concomitant hepatotoxic medicines, and highlights extensive interaction risks in the current rifampin prescribing information.
This is a shared conversation. Sign in to Orris to start your own chat.