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What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using rifampin (Rifadin)?

You should not use this medication if you are allergic to rifampin.

Before taking rifampin, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have:

• liver disease; or
• porphyria (a genetic enzyme disorder that causes symptoms affecting the skin or nervous system).

If you have any of these conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely take rifampin.

FDA pregnancy category C. This medication may be harmful to an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment.

Rifampin can make birth control pills less effective. Ask your doctor about using a non-hormone method of birth control (such as a condom, diaphragm, spermicide) to prevent pregnancy while taking rifampin.

Rifampin passes into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I use rifampin (Rifadin)?

Take this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take it in larger amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label.

Take the rifampin capsule on an empty stomach 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals. Swallow the capsule with a full glass (8 ounces) of water.

Take this medication for the full prescribed length of time. Your symptoms may improve before the infection is completely cleared. Rifampin will not treat a viral infection such as the common cold or flu.

Store this medication at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

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