Why is Rifampin, Isoniazid, Pyrazinamide prescribed?

Rifater is a combination antibiotic used to treat the initial phase of tuberculosis. After a 2-month period, your doctor may prescribe another combination of antituberculosis drugs (Rifamate), which can be continued for longer periods.

How to use Rifampin :

Use Rifampin as directed by your doctor. Check the label on the medicine for exact dosing instructions.

• Rifampin is usually administered as an injection at your doctor's office, hospital, or clinic. If you are using Rifampin at home, carefully follow the injection procedures taught to you by your health care provider.
• If Rifampin contains particles or is discolored, or if the vial is cracked or damaged in any way, do not use it.
• To clear up your infection completely, continue using Rifampin for the full course of treatment even if you feel better in a few days
• Rifampin works best if it is taken at the same time every day.
• Keep this product, as well as syringes and needles, out of the reach of children and away from pets. Do not reuse needles, syringes, or other materials. Dispose of properly after use. Ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain local regulations for proper disposal.
• If you miss a dose of Rifampin , take it as soon as possible. If several hours have passed or if it is nearing time for the next dose, do not double the dose to catch up, unless advised by your health care provider. Do not take 2 doses at once.

Ask your health care provider any questions you may have about how to use Rifampin .

What is rifampin?

Rifampin is an antibiotic. Rifampin prevents bacteria from spreading in your body.

Rifampin is used to treat or prevent tuberculosis (TB).

Rifampin may also be used to eliminate a bacteria from your nose and throat that may cause meningitis or other infections, even if you do not have an infection. Rifampin prevents you from spreading this bacteria to other people, but the medication will not treat an infection caused by the bacteria.

Rifampin may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

Important safety information:

• Rifampin may cause drowsiness or dizziness. Do not drive, operate machinery, or do anything else that could be dangerous until you know how you react to Rifampin .
• Using Rifampin alone, with other medicines, or with alcohol may lessen your ability to drive or to perform other potentially dangerous tasks.
• Rifampin is effective only against bacteria. It is not effective for treating viral infections (eg, the common cold).
• It is important to use Rifampin for the full course of treatment. Failure to do so may decrease the effectiveness of Rifampin and increase the risk that the bacteria will no longer be sensitive to Rifampin and will not be able to be treated by this or certain other antibiotics in the future.
• Rifampin may produce a reddish coloration of your urine, sweat, saliva, and tears. Rifampin may also permanently stain soft contact lenses.
• Additional monitoring of your dose or condition might be necessary if you are taking isoniazid or itraconazole.
• Rifampin may interfere with certain lab tests. make sure your doctor and laboratory personnel know you are using Rifampin .
• Rifampin may decrease the effectiveness of hormonal contraceptives. If you are using birth control pills, it is recommended that you use an additional form of birth control while taking Rifampin .
• LAB TESTS, such as complete blood counts and liver function tests, may be needed to monitor your condition.
• Use Rifampin with caution in the ELDERLY because they may be more sensitive to its effects.
• PREGNANCY and BREAST-FEEDING: If you become pregnant, discuss with your doctor the benefits and risks of using Rifampin during pregnancy. Rifampin is excreted in breast milk. Do not breast-feed while taking Rifampin .

How should you take Rifampin, Isoniazid, Pyrazinamide?

Take Rifater exactly as prescribed. Do not stop without consulting your doctor. It is important to take all of the drug prescribed for you, even if you feel better, and not to miss any doses.

Take Rifater on an empty stomach, either 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal, with a full glass of water. Wait at least 1 hour before taking an antacid, as antacids may interfere with the drug.

If needed, your doctor may suggest taking vitamin B 6 while you are on Rifater therapy.

--If you miss a dose...

Take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Never take 2 doses at once.

--Storage instructions...

Store at room temperature. Protect from moisture.