Generic Rifadin (Rifampicin)

This medicine contains 300 mg of the active substance rifampicin which belongs to a group of medicines called antibiotics. Antibiotics are widely used for the treatment of bacterial infections by killing bacteria and preventing their growth. Rifampicin is prescribed for the treatment of some severe bacterial infections, usually in combination with other medicines. Some of these infections are Tuberculosis, Leprosy, Brucellosis, Legionnaires Diseases, Haemophilus Influenza. It is also prescribed for the prevention of Meningitis and Haemophilus Influenza in children aged 4 years or younger.

Is Rifampicin suitable for me?

Rifampicin is not suitable for everyone. Do not use it

• if you are allergic to rifampicin or to other ingredients of this medicine
• if you have jaundice
• if you are taking saquinavir or ritonavir for an HIV infection

In particular, you must tell the doctor if you:

• are pregnant, planning to get pregnant, or breastfeeding 
• have kidney problems
• have liver problems
• have diabetes
• are weak in your arms and legs (peripheral neuropathy)
• have a rare blood problem called ‘porphyria’
• wear contact lenses
• are elderly or a child

Rifampicin interacts with other medicines. It is most important that you tell the doctor all the medications and herbal supplements that you are currently taking.

See the package leaflet for a complete list of possible contraindications and warnings.

How should I take Rifampicin?

This medicine is available in form of a capsule.

You should take rifampicin exactly as instructed by your doctor or pharmacist.

• For the treatment of Tuberculosis and Leprosy, the usual dose is 450 to 600 mg per day. The usual dose for children is 10 to 20 mg/kg per day.
• For the treatment of Brucellosis, Legionnaires Disease or other serious bacterial infections, the usual dose is 600 mg to 1200 mg per day, in 2 to 4 divided doses.
• For the prevention of Meningitis, the usual dose is 600 mg two times a day. The usual dose for children and infants is 5 to 10 mg/kg twice each day for two days.
• For the prevention of Haemophilus Influenza, the usual dose is 20 mg/kg per day for four days. The maximum dose is 600 mg. the usual dose for neonates (1 month) is 10 mg/kg per day for 4 days.

Do not use more of it, do not use it more often, or do not use it for a longer time than your doctor instructed. Also, this medicine works best if there is a constant amount in the blood. To help keep this amount constant, do not miss any doses and take the medicine at the same time each day. Do not take two doses together if you miss a dose.

Read the information leaflet provided with your medication for additional information. Talk to your doctor if you have any additional questions.

What are Rifampicin side effects?

Like all medicines rifampicin can cause side effects, including:

• diarrhea, stomach pain, heartburn, indigestion
• skin flushing or itching
• irregular periods
• loss of appetite (anorexia)
• headache
• orange or reddish color in your urine, sweat, phlegm (sputum), saliva or tears
• flu like symptoms
• shortness of breath
• flushing
• skin rash
• tiredness, dizziness

Consult a doctor if the side effects are severe. See the package leaflet for a complete list of side effects.