Rifadin is a rifamycin antibiotic used to treat tuberculosis (TB), as well as to treat those who have been exposed to meningitis-causing bacteria before they become sick. This drug does not treat acute meningitis. It may also be used to treat other conditions as determined by your doctor. Rifampin may turn sweat, tears, sputum, feces, urine and saliva a red-orange color. It may also permanently stain soft contact lenses. The effectiveness of oral contraceptives cannot be relied upon while on rifampin therapy. It is recommended that alternative or additional methods of birth control be used. Drug interactions: It is important to tell your doctor and pharmacist about any prescription or over-the-counter medications you are taking to help avoid any serious drug interactions. The dose of one or both medications may need to be altered or a new drug may be prescribed. In some cases, one of the drugs may have to be discontinued. The following drugs and drug classes have been known to interact with rifampin: blood thinners (e.g. warfarin), acetaminophen (e.g. Tylenol ®), benzodiazepines (e.g. diazepam), barbiturates (phenobarbital), hydantoins (e.g. phenytoin), beta-blockers (e.g. propranolol), chloramphenicol (Chloromycetin ®), clofibrate (Atromid-S®), ketoconazole (e.g. Nizoral ®), oral contreceptives (e.g. Triphasil®), corticosteroids (e.g. prednisone), cyclosporine (e.g. Sandimmune ®), digoxin (e.g. Lanoxin®), disopyramide (e.g. Norpace ®), enalapril (e.g. Vasotec ®) estrogens (e.g. Premarin®),isoniazid, methadone,quinidine,sulfonylureas (e.g. tolbutamide), theophylline (e.g. Theo-Dur ®), verapamil (e.g. Isoptin®). Use is not recommended in the following situations: jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), allergy to rifampin or any other rifamycin, premature or newborn infants who's liver isn't functioning with full efficiency. Caution is recommended in the following situations: liver disease. Use in pregnancy: Contact your doctor if you suspect you may be pregnant. Use while breast-feeding: Rifampin passes into breast-milk in small amounts. Contact your doctor or pharmacist before you begin breast-feeding.

Rifadin Side Effects:

SIDE EFFECTS, that may go away during treatment, include stomach upset, heartburn, loss of appetite, nausea, gas, abdominal cramping, headache, drowsiness, dizziness, menstrual changes, joint pain, or leg cramps. If they continue or are bothersome, check with your doctor. CHECK WITH YOUR DOCTOR AS SOON AS POSSIBLE if you experience vomiting, diarrhea, fever, chills, changes in vision, or confusion. CONTACT YOUR DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY if you experience severe stomach pain, dark urine, or yellowing of eyes or skin. AN ALLERGIC REACTION to this medicine is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.