rifampin-oral (cont.)
PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor your medical history especially if you have: liver problems, history of alcohol use, any allergies. Alcohol can reduce the effectiveness of this medication and increase side effects. Limit alcohol consumption while taking this medication. Use caution operating machinery or participating in activities requiring alertness if this medication makes you feel drowsy or dizzy. This medication should be used during pregnancy only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. Rifampin is excreted into breast milk. Though, to date, problems have not been reported in nursing infants, consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: This drug is not recommended for use with: delavirdine. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more details. Inform your doctor about all the medicines you may use (both prescription and nonprescription) especially: warfarin, oral medicines for diabetes, azole antifungals (e.g., itraconazole, ketoconazole), theophylline, halothane, verapamil, certain protease inhibitors (e.g., nelfinavir), corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone), disopyramide, beta-blockers (e.g., metoprolol), isoniazid, digitoxin, quinidine, mexiletine, phenytoin, cyclosporine, zidovudine and live vaccines. Also report drugs which cause drowsiness such as: sedatives, tranquilizers, psychiatric medicines, anti-seizure drugs, anti-anxiety drugs, narcotic pain relievers, antihistamines (e.g., diphenhydramine). Rifampin can decrease the effectiveness of oral contraceptives. Discuss the use of other birth control methods with your doctor. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. US residents can call the US national poison hotline at 1-800-222-1222. Canadian residents should call their local poison control center directly. Symptoms of overdose may include swelling of face or around eyes, itching over the entire body, orange or red discoloration of skin or eyes, nausea, vomiting, drowsiness, and loss of consciousness.
NOTES: Laboratory tests will be done periodically while taking this medication to monitor its effects. Do not share this medication with others.
MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose, take as soon as remembered; do not take if it is almost time for the next dose, instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
STORAGE: Store at room temperature away from sunlight and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom.
Last Editorial Review: 3/2/2005
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