Rifampin

Why has my veterinarian prescribed this medicine?

Rifampin is an antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections caused by
Rhodococcus, Mycobacteria and Staphylococci.  Rifampin has antifungal activity when combined with other antifungal agents and may be used to treat infections such as histoplasmosis or aspergillosis.

How do I give this medication?

"Wear disposable gloves when giving this medication to pets. This medication may stain skin and cause rashes in people."

• Give this medication to your pet as directed by your veterinarian. READ THE LABEL CAREFULLY.
• Wear disposable gloves when giving this medication to pets. This medication may stain skin and cause rashes in people.
• If using the liquid form of this medication, shake well before measuring the dose and measure the dose with reasonable care.
• Give this medication on an empty stomach.
• Give this medication for as long as prescribed by your veterinarian, even if it appears the pet is feeling better. This will help to ensure the infection is completely cleared up.
• DO NOT give the pet more medicine than directed.
• DO NOT give the medicine more often than directed.
• Try not to miss giving any doses.

What if I miss giving a dose?

Give the dose as soon as possible. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose, and continue with the regular schedule. Do not give the pet two doses at once.

How do I store this medicine?

• Keep this medicine out of reach of children.
• Store capsules and tablets in a cool, dry place at room temperature. Store away from heat and direct sunlight.
• The liquid medication should be stored in the refrigerator.
• Do not store this medicine in the bathroom, near the kitchen sink or in other damp places. The medicine may break down if exposed to heat or moisture.

Are there any potential side effects?

"Rifampin may cause urine, tears, sweat and saliva to turn a red-orange color."

• Rifampin may cause urine, tears, sweat and saliva to turn a red-orange color. This is normal and does not harm the animal.
• Your pet may develop a rash or a stomach upset. Contact your veterinarian if these effects are troublesome.
• Other side effects may occur. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian.

Are there any possible drug interactions?

• Make sure to tell your veterinarian if you are giving your pet any other medication or supplements.
• Quite often, your veterinarian may prescribe two different medications, and sometimes a drug interaction may be anticipated. If this occurs, your veterinarian may vary the dose and/or monitor your pet more closely.
• The following drugs can potentially interact with rifampin: propranolol, quinidine, dapsone, chloramphenicol, corticosteroids, oral anticoagulants, ketoconazole, benzodiazepines and barbiturates.
• Contact your veterinarian if your pet experiences any unusual reactions when different medications are given together.