Rifampicin

Rifampicin is a drug that is indicated in:

• tuberculosis
• meningococcal meningitis prophylaxis
• leprosy

Cautious use is required:

• it discolours soft contact lenses
• reduce dose in:
  • hepatic impairment
  • alcoholism
  • pregnancy
• users of the oral contraceptive pill should take additional contraceptive precautions

Contra-indications to its use are:

• jaundice
• porphyria

Side-effects of rifampicin include:

• shortness of breath
• collapse and shock
• acute renal failure
• thrombocytopenic purpura
• gastrointestinal symptoms
• influenzal syndrome
• hepatic reactions with alterations of liver function, jaundice, urticaria and rashes
• urine, saliva and other secretions coloured orange-red

Routes of administration:

• oral:
  • tablets
  • capsules
  • syrup
• i.v. infusion

The summary of product characteristics should be consulted before prescribing this drug.