Rifampin eliminates bacteria that cause tuberculosis (TB). Rifampin comes in pill and injectable forms It is generally is used with other drugs to treat tuberculosis and to prevent you from giving this infection to others

Rifampin is a first-line agent (along with isoniazid and pyrazinamide) in the treatment of pulmonary and extrapulmonary tuberculosis.

Rifampin comes in two tablet strengths, 150 mg or 300 mg. The usual adult dose of rifampin is 600 mg/day. In pediatrics, usual doses are 10 to 20 mg/kg/day, up to a maximum of 600 mg/day.. Dosage adjustments should be considered in patients with liver disease. It is very important to be sure and follow the doctor's orders when taking any prescribed medication.

The drug is usually taken orally. It usually is taken once a day. You will probably be taking it for at least 3 months and possibly for up to 2 years. The duration of therapy varies with the infection or condition being treated.

Rifampin works best on an empty stomach; take it 1 hour before or at least 2 hours after a meal.

Chills, difficult breathing, dizziness, fever, headache, muscle and bone pain, rash, itching, sore throat, yellow eyes or skin, unusual bleeding or bruising, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, unusual tiredness or weakness, bloody or cloudy urine, stomach cramps, diarrhea, and sore mouth or tongue. Urine, feces, saliva, sputum, sweat or tears may become red-orange to red-brown in color. Soft contact lenses may become permanently discolored.

Rifampin has been shown to produce liver dysfunction. You should not stop taking this medication, even if you feel better and have no symptoms, unless you are told to stop by your doctor. Be careful about drinking alcoholic beverages as alcohol can increase the adverse liver effects sometimes caused by rifampin. Since an increased risk may exist for individuals with liver disease, benefits must be weighed carefully against the risk of further liver damage. As rifampin can decrease the effectiveness of oral contraceptives, an alternative or additional birth control method should be used while taking this medication.

Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Do not store in your bathroom as heat and moisture may cause the medication to lose potency.

Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed.