Rifampicin capsules are considered one of the strong antibiotics used to treat bacterial infections and severe inflammations as they work to eliminate the bacteria causing the disease.
Doctors mainly use it as part of tuberculosis treatment protocols and in some complicated infections that require a potent antibiotic and the doctor determines the appropriate dose according to each patient's condition.
Components of Rifampicin
The medicine consists of the following elements:
- Active ingredient: Rifampicin.
- Excipients used to form the capsule.
Rifampicin Strengths
The medicine is available in the following forms and strengths:
- Rifampicin 150 mg 8 capsules.
- Rifampicin 300 mg 8 capsules.
Indications of Use for Rifampicin
Some of the most important uses of rifampicin include:
- Treatment of active and latent tuberculosis.
- Prevention of meningococcal infection in certain cases.
- Treatment of leprosy under specific protocols.
- Helping eliminate certain resistant bacterial strains.
- Treatment of prostate infections in selected cases determined by the doctor.
- Used as part of therapy for severe infections when needed.
Rifampicin Dosage
The doctor determines the appropriate dose depending on the condition and it often includes:
- Taking the dose once daily on an empty stomach.
- Tuberculosis doses are usually calculated daily according to body weight.
- The medicine may be combined with other antibiotics to treat TB.
- Children receive accurately calculated doses based on body weight.
- Treatment continues for extended periods according to the therapeutic plan.
Rifampicin Side Effects
Some of the most common side effects of rifampicin include:
- Orange discoloration of urine or tears.
- Mild stomach upset.
- Loss of appetite.
- Mild headache.
- Skin rash in rare cases.
- Elevated liver enzymes in some patients.
- Light sensitivity in a small number of users.
Contraindications of Rifampicin
The medicine is contraindicated in cases of previous allergy to the active ingredient or any of its components and it should be avoided in severe liver problems.
Extreme caution is necessary when used with certain medications that may interact with it such as liver drugs and blood thinners and the doctor decides the suitable alternative or dose adjustment.
Rifampicin Alternatives in Pharmacies
It has several available alternatives including:
- Rifocin.
- Rifamox.
- Rimactane.
- Rifactine.
Use During Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
It is used with caution during pregnancy and breastfeeding and the following guidelines are recommended:
- Only used when medically necessary.
- Consult the doctor before starting treatment.
- Monitor the infant when used during breastfeeding.
- Inform the doctor about any other medications.
- Adhere strictly to the prescribed dose.
Storage Conditions
It should be stored under the following conditions:
- At room temperature.
- Away from moisture.
- Away from direct sunlight.
- Inside its original packaging.
- Out of the reach of children.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the alternative to rifampicin?
Isoniazid, ethambutol, or pyrazinamide as alternatives from the same tuberculosis treatment group.
Does rifampicin treat brucellosis?
It is not considered a primary treatment for brucellosis and is used only in specific cases along with other medicines determined by the doctor.
When should rifampicin be taken?
It is taken in the morning on an empty stomach one hour before food for better absorption.