Rifampin-Rifampicin 150mg

Rifampin 150mg Uses

Rifampin 150mg is prescribed to:

• Treat active tuberculosis (TB) infections, in combination with other medications.
• Prevent the spread of latent TB infections in high-risk individuals.
• Treat bacterial infections, including certain types of bacterial meningitis.
• Serve as a prophylactic agent for individuals exposed to meningococcal meningitis.

How Does Rifampin 150mg Work

Rifampin inhibits bacterial RNA polymerase, a crucial enzyme in bacterial RNA synthesis. By disrupting this process, Rifampin stops bacterial growth and replication, ultimately eliminating the infection. This makes it highly effective against mycobacteria, the bacteria responsible for TB.

How to Use Rifampin 150mg

• Take Rifampin 150mg exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider, usually once daily on an empty stomach, 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal.
• Swallow the capsule whole with a full glass of water.
• Continue the full course of treatment, even if symptoms improve, to prevent resistance.
• If part of a combination therapy, follow your doctor’s instructions for taking all prescribed medications.

Side Effects

Common side effects may include:

• Nausea or vomiting
• Abdominal discomfort
• Red-orange discoloration of urine, sweat, saliva, and tears (harmless)
• Headache or dizziness

Rare but serious side effects include:

• Severe liver damage, indicated by yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, or persistent nausea
• Allergic reactions, such as rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing
• Severe gastrointestinal symptoms or persistent fever

Drug Interactions

Rifampin 150mg may interact with:

• Oral contraceptives, reducing their effectiveness; alternative contraceptive methods are recommended.
• Anticoagulants like Warfarin, requiring dosage adjustments.
• Antiretroviral drugs, potentially reducing their effectiveness.
• Certain antifungal medications, such as ketoconazole or itraconazole.

Inform your doctor about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are using to avoid potential interactions.

Food Interactions

• Rifampin is best taken on an empty stomach for optimal absorption, but it can be taken with food if it causes stomach upset.
• Avoid alcohol consumption during treatment, as it may increase the risk of liver damage.

Rifampin 150mg Contraindications

This medication is not suitable for:

• Individuals allergic to Rifampin or related medications.
• Patients with severe liver disease or jaundice.
• Pregnant or breastfeeding women, unless deemed essential by a healthcare provider.

Precautions and Warnings

• Regular monitoring of liver function is recommended during prolonged use of Rifampin.
• Inform your doctor if you have a history of liver disease, diabetes, or blood disorders.
• Rifampin can discolor contact lenses permanently; consider using glasses during treatment.
• Use cautiously in individuals with a history of porphyria or other metabolic disorders.

Storage

• Store Rifampin 150mg capsules at room temperature, away from moisture, heat, and direct sunlight.
• Keep the capsules in their original packaging and out of reach of children and pets.
• Dispose of unused or expired capsules responsibly, following local disposal guidelines.

Safety Information

• Use this medication only as directed by your healthcare provider.
• Do not exceed the prescribed dose or discontinue use without medical advice.
• Report any unusual symptoms, such as severe abdominal pain, yellowing of the skin, or persistent fever, to your doctor immediately.