Rifadin Description

Rifadin or generic Rifampin is prescribed as one of the medications taken to treat tuberculosis (TB), an infectious bacterial disease that can lay dormant in your lungs for years but once activated, it may affect other parts of the body. A doctor can also recommend treating leprosy and preventing pneumonia or meningitis caused by bacterium that you may have come into contact with. If symptoms of meningitis have already developed, other drug treatments are available. The generic alternative is not manufactured by the company that makes the brand product.

Immobilize an Essential Enzyme so Bacteria Cannot Replicate

When taken as directed, Rifadin will target a bacterial enzyme and cause it to be inactive. This enzyme, known as RNA-polymerase, is what bacteria require to make essential proteins and copy their own genetic information in order to replicate. If they are unable to multiply, their numbers dwindle and they die off. By taking several drugs at the same time, there is less risk of the bacteria becoming drug resistant while also decreasing the numbers quickly. After 2 months, the number of drugs you take will be reduced to Rifadin and one other to be taken for the next 4 months to kill any bacteria that remains.

Conditions Treated by Rifadin

Not everyone exposed to TB germs will become infected as and many people have a healthy immune system that will contain the bacteria to stop the disease from becoming ‘active’, this is called latent TB and it cannot be passed on to others and symptoms will not develop. Active TB symptoms include a cough, fever, weight loss, and night sweats. An infected person can cough, sneeze, or spit when talking or shouting and anyone near-by could inhale the droplets into their lungs. Due to a compromised immune system in those with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) they have a higher risk of developing active tuberculosis.

Before Rifadin is Prescribed to You

Ask the doctor about the safety of taking Rifadin while you are pregnant, trying to become pregnant, or are breast feeding. Discuss other medical conditions and allergies you have with the doctor and list any current over-the-counter and prescription drugs you take or use, including herbal remedies and dietary or vitamin supplements. It can then be decided if it is safe to buy Rifadin as it is the best drug for your circumstances.

Rifadin Precautions and Proper Use

Until it is known how Rifadin will affect you, avoid driving or performing any task that requires alertness. It is important to continue taking Rifadin for the time period prescribed by the doctor to reduce the risk of any remaining bacteria multiplying.You may notice your urine, sweat, tears, and saliva are a reddish or purple color. This discoloring is harmless and temporary but could cause permanent staining to your soft contact lenses.

Possible Side Effects of Rifadin

• Gas
• Diarrhea
• Dizziness
• Headache

Drugs Similar to Rifadin

• Etibi
• Tebrazid
• Mycobutin