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Rifampin

Brand names: Rifadin

Rifampin treats tuberculosis, including latent TB, and some other infections. It interacts with a great many medicines.

Brand namesRifadin
Type of medicineAntibiotic (TB medicine)
Prescription?Prescription
ImportantThis page is general information, not a prescription. Don't start, stop, or change a medicine without talking to your provider or pharmacist.

Overview

It turns urine, sweat, and tears orange-red, which can stain contact lenses.

What it's used for

  • Active TB (with other medicines)
  • Latent TB
  • Preventing meningitis after exposure

How to take it

  • Take it on an empty stomach, 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals.
  • Take every dose; missed doses can lead to resistance.

Your dose depends on your health and other medicines. Always follow your prescription label, and ask your pharmacist if anything is unclear.

Side effects

Common side effects

  • Orange body fluids
  • Upset stomach
  • Rash
Call your provider todayYellow skin or eyes, dark urine, or pain in the upper right belly
Call your provider todayFlu-like symptoms or unusual bruising

Warnings

  • Liver tests may be checked; avoid alcohol.

Other medicines, foods, and alcohol

  • It makes birth control pills, blood thinners, HIV medicines, seizure medicines, and many others less effective. Tell every provider.

Tell your provider and pharmacist about every medicine, vitamin, and supplement you take.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Used in pregnancy for TB.

Missed doses, overdose, and storage

If you miss a dose

Take it as soon as you remember, unless it's almost time for your next dose. Then skip the missed dose. Don't take two doses at once.

If someone takes too much

Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 or get help online at poison.org. Call 911 if the person collapses, has a seizure, has trouble breathing, or can't be woken.

Storing it

Store at room temperature, away from heat and moisture (not in the bathroom), and out of reach of children and pets.

Conditions it's used for

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-13.