Rifampin (Also Known As Rifampicin)
Pronunciation: (ri-FAM-pin).
- Generic name
- Rifampin (also known as Rifampicin)
- Brand names
- Rifadin, R-Cin, Rifagut, Rifater, Rofact, Rifampicin
- Drug class
- Antibiotic (Rifamycin class)
Availability and supply rules vary by country
Trade names by country: United States · Canada
Australia: · Full directory
What Rifampin (also known as Rifampicin) is and how it works
Uses, formulations, monitoring, and supply rules can differ by patient, product, and country. Follow the exact local product information and professional advice.
Mechanism of action: how Rifampin (also known as Rifampicin) works
Rifampin inhibits bacterial DNA-dependent RNA polymerase, suppressing RNA synthesis and, consequently, protein synthesis. This bactericidal action is particularly effective against Mycobacterium tuberculosis and other mycobacteria, as well as some Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. (2)
What Rifampin (also known as Rifampicin) is used for
Tuberculosis
Tuberculosis (2)
Leprosy
Leprosy (2)
Meningococcal prophylaxis
Meningococcal prophylaxis (2)
Haemophilus influenzae type b prophylaxis
Haemophilus influenzae type b prophylaxis (2)
Before taking Rifampin (also known as Rifampicin)
Do not take / not appropriate for
- Contraindicated in patients with hypersensitivity to rifampin or other rifamycins, and in those taking certain HIV protease inhibitors. (Contraindication) (2)
Tell your clinician about
(2)How to take Rifampin (also known as Rifampicin)
- General Instructions: Take rifampin exactly as prescribed, usually once daily. Take on an empty stomach (1 hour before or 2 hours after meals) with a full glass of water for best absorption.. Adult Dosing: For tuberculosis: 600 mg orally or intravenously once daily, often in combination with other anti-TB drugs. Dosing may vary for other infections.. Pediatric Dosing: Children: 10–20 mg/kg (maximum 600 mg) once daily, adjusted by weight and indication.. Administration: Swallow capsules or tablets whole. For oral suspension, shake well before measuring the dose. IV administration should be performed by a healthcare professional.. When To Stop: Do not stop taking rifampin without consulting your doctor, even if you feel better. Stopping early can lead to treatment failure or resistance.. Storage: Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep out of reach of children.
- This page does not provide a dose calculator. Dosing must follow the prescriber, pharmacist, or product label.
Procedures and treatment changes
Tell the treating team before surgery, procedures, or any medicine change. Do not alter treatment without the responsible clinician. (2)
Missed dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose—do not double up. Contact your healthcare provider if you miss multiple doses.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose may include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, itching, headache, drowsiness, and orange-red discoloration of skin and fluids. Seek emergency medical attention or call your local poison control center immediately. (2)
Side effects
Side effects and their urgency vary; report severe, persistent, or concerning symptoms to a healthcare professional.
Orange-red discoloration of urine, sweat, tears, and saliva
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Nausea
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Vomiting
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Diarrhea
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Rash
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Hepatotoxicity (liver damage)
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Flu-like syndrome
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Thrombocytopenia
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Serious warnings
May cause serious liver problems—monitor for jaundice and abnormal liver tests — serious
Symptoms: May cause serious liver problems—monitor for jaundice and abnormal liver tests. Can interact with many medications, including oral contraceptives, HIV drugs, and anticoagulants. May reduce the effectiveness of hormonal birth control—use additional contraception. Can cause severe allergic reactions in rare cases. Not recommended for patients with severe liver impairment unless benefits outweigh risks.
Action: Follow the urgency stated and seek prompt or emergency care when indicated. (2)
Contraindications recorded in the clinician database — serious
Symptoms: Contraindications recorded in the clinician database: Contraindicated in patients with hypersensitivity to rifampin or other rifamycins, and in those taking certain HIV protease inhibitors. Use with caution in patients with liver disease, alcoholism, or concurrent hepatotoxic drugs. Monitor closely in elderly and those with pre-existing hepatic impairment.
Action: Follow the urgency stated and seek prompt or emergency care when indicated. (2)
Interactions
| Medicine or test | Effect | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Recorded interactions | Rifampin is a potent inducer of liver enzymes (CYP450 system), which can lower the effectiveness of many drugs including oral contraceptives, warfarin, certain HIV medications, antifungals, and immunosuppressants. Always inform your healthcare provider about all medications and supplements you are taking. | (2) |
Pregnancy, breastfeeding, kidney/liver function, age
Pregnancy
The FDA label reviewed for this page does not include a modern pregnancy risk-summary section (older label format). Rifampin is generally used in pregnancy for active tuberculosis when treatment benefit outweighs risk, on specialist guidance; this decision should be made with the treating clinician rather than from this page. (2)
Breastfeeding
The FDA label reviewed for this page does not include specific breastfeeding data. Use of rifampin while breastfeeding should be discussed with the treating clinician, who can weigh the specific clinical situation. (2)
Children
Frequency: Once daily. Weight Based: 10-20 mg/kg/dose orally once daily, not to exceed 600 mg.. Max Daily Dose: 600 mg. Max Single Dose: 600 mg. Age Restrictions: Safety not established in children under 1 year of age. (2)
Renal_impairment
Renal: the FDA label states rifampin has been used in patients with renal failure at doses not exceeding 600 mg daily with no dosage adjustment required; the half-life of rifampin increases with worsening renal insufficiency. Hepatic: the FDA label carries a hepatotoxicity warning — patients with impaired liver function should receive rifampin only when necessary and under strict medical supervision, with liver function monitored before treatment and every 2-4 weeks during therapy; if signs of hepatic damage occur or worsen, the prescriber will decide whether rifampin should be discontinued. (2)
Hepatic_impairment
Renal: the FDA label states rifampin has been used in patients with renal failure at doses not exceeding 600 mg daily with no dosage adjustment required; the half-life of rifampin increases with worsening renal insufficiency. Hepatic: the FDA label carries a hepatotoxicity warning — patients with impaired liver function should receive rifampin only when necessary and under strict medical supervision, with liver function monitored before treatment and every 2-4 weeks during therapy; if signs of hepatic damage occur or worsen, the prescriber will decide whether rifampin should be discontinued. (2)
Monitoring
(2)Storage
The FDA label reviewed for this page directs storage of rifampin capsules at controlled room temperature (20-25°C/68-77°F, with excursions permitted to 15-30°C/59-86°F), protected from light and moisture, in a tight, light-resistant container.
Study the drug class: Rifamycins
Professional information
Clinician-facing context only. This section does not replace current product labeling.
General
Indication: Tuberculosis
Dose summary: 10 mg/kg orally once daily, up to a maximum of 600 mg.
Renal context: The FDA label states rifampin has been used at doses not exceeding 600 mg daily in patients with renal failure with no dosage adjustment required; the half-life of rifampin increases progressively with the severity of renal insufficiency (from a normal ~3.6 hours up to ~11 hours in severe renal impairment, per PK data cited on the label). (2)
Hepatic guidance
The FDA label carries a hepatotoxicity warning for rifampin: hepatocellular, cholestatic, and mixed-pattern liver injury has been reported, ranging from asymptomatic enzyme elevation to fulminant liver failure and death, especially with pre-existing liver disease or concomitant hepatotoxic drugs. Patients with impaired liver function should receive rifampin only when necessary and under strict medical supervision, with liver function checked before treatment and every 2-4 weeks during therapy; if signs of hepatic damage occur or worsen, the prescriber will decide whether rifampin should be discontinued.
Frequently asked questions
Why does rifampin turn my urine orange?
Rifampin is excreted in body fluids and can cause a harmless reddish-orange discoloration of urine, sweat, saliva, and tears. This is expected and not a cause for concern.
Can I drink alcohol while taking rifampin?
It is best to avoid alcohol while taking rifampin, as both can increase the risk of liver damage.
Does rifampin affect birth control?
Yes, rifampin can make hormonal birth control less effective. Use additional non-hormonal contraception while taking rifampin.
What should I do if I miss a dose?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not take two doses at once.
How long will I need to take rifampin?
The duration depends on your condition. For tuberculosis, treatment usually lasts 6 months or longer. Always complete the full course as prescribed.
Can rifampin be used alone to treat tuberculosis?
No, rifampin should always be used in combination with other anti-TB drugs to prevent resistance.
What are the signs of serious liver problems with rifampin?
Warning signs include yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, severe fatigue, abdominal pain, and persistent nausea or vomiting. Contact your doctor immediately if these occur.
What happens if I take too much Rifampin / Rifampicin?
Taking too much Rifampin/Rifampicin can lead to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and an orange-red discoloration of skin, urine, and other bodily fluids. In severe cases, liver damage and central nervous system effects may occur. If an overdose is suspected, it is crucial to seek immediate emergency medical attention or contact a poison control center without delay.
Can I drink alcohol while taking Rifampin / Rifampicin?
It is generally advised to avoid or significantly limit alcohol consumption while taking Rifampin/Rifampicin. Both alcohol and Rifampin are metabolized by the liver, and their concurrent use can increase the risk of liver damage (hepatotoxicity). This interaction can exacerbate side effects and potentially lead to serious liver complications. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice.
Is Rifampin / Rifampicin safe during pregnancy?
Rifampin/Rifampicin is classified under a specific pregnancy category, indicating that its use during pregnancy requires careful consideration. While it may be used in certain situations where the benefits outweigh the potential risks, it is essential to consult your healthcare provider. They can assess your individual circumstances, discuss the potential risks and benefits, and recommend the safest course of action for both you and your baby.
What is the mechanism of action of Rifampin (also known as Rifampicin)?
Rifampin inhibits bacterial DNA-dependent RNA polymerase, suppressing RNA synthesis and, consequently, protein synthesis. This bactericidal action is particularly effective against Mycobacterium tuberculosis and other mycobacteria, as well as some Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. (2)
What is the generic name of Rifampin (Also Known As Rifampicin)?
The generic name is Rifampin (also known as Rifampicin). It is sold under brand names including Rifadin, R-Cin, Rifagut, Rifater, Rofact, Rifampicin.
What class of drug is Rifampin (also known as Rifampicin)?
Rifampin (Also Known As Rifampicin) is classed as: Antibiotic (Rifamycin class).
References
- Rifampin / Rifampicin — MedGuideGlobal clinician-authored medicine recordMedGuideGlobal · Global (internal) · accessed 2026-08-07 · source 1
- Rifampin Capsules, USP — FDA-approved Prescribing InformationU.S. National Library of Medicine, DailyMed · United States · accessed 2026-08-07 · source 2
- Rifampin — patient drug information (MedlinePlus)U.S. National Library of Medicine (MedlinePlus) · US · accessed 2026-08-14 · source 3
- Rifadin IV — FDA approval record (Drugs@FDA NDA050627)U.S. Food and Drug Administration · US · accessed 2026-08-14 · source 4
- Rifampin — RxNorm normalized drug concept (RXCUI 9384)U.S. National Library of Medicine (RxNorm) · US · accessed 2026-08-14 · source 5
Brand names by country
Single-ingredient Rifampin (also known as Rifampicin) names are shown separately by country. Product availability, strengths, and supply rules can change; combination products are not included here.
Priority countries
United States
- Rifadin IV600 mg0mL · sanofi-aventis u.s. llc
Canada
- RIFADIN
- ROFACT