Rifabutin
General Information
Rifabutin is used to help prevent a certain serious infection called Mycobacterium avium-complex (MAC). This is used alone or along with other medicines to treat the infection. MAC is a group of bacteria related to tuberculosis. These microorganisms are very common in food, soil, or water. If you have a strong immune system, it will not cause problems. But they can make people with weaker immune systems like those with HIV.
How does Rifabutin work?
Rifabutin works by killing the bacteria that are causing the infection. It does this by targeting and inactivating a bacterial enzyme called RNA-polymerase. The bacteria use RNA-polymerase to make vital proteins and to duplicate their genetic information. Without this enzyme, the bacteria cannot reproduce and they die.
Why use Rifabutin?
Rifabutin is a type of medicine called a rifamycin antibiotic. This belongs to the class of medications called anti-mycobacterial. Rifabutin helps to stop the growth and development of the bacteria that cause infection. This is supplied as capsules for oral use. Each capsule contains Rifabutin with the strength of 150 mg. This is a prescription approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
How to use Rifabutin?
The recommended dosage is based on your condition, weight, age, and response. Rifabutin is to be taken exactly as it is prescribed. You should not take more or less than it is given by your doctor.
This medication is to be taken usually twice a day. It is to be taken by mouth as directed by your doctor. You may take each dose with or without a meal. If stomach upset occurs, take it with food. Swallow the capsule as a whole with a full glass of water. Don’t forget to take it at the same time each day. Tell your doctor if your condition does not improve.
What are the side effects of Rifabutin?
- Stomach upset or pain
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Changes in taste
- Bloating
- Skin rash
- Headache
- Itching
- Loss of appetite
- Bruising
Warnings and Precautions
- Tell your doctor if you are allergic to this medication. Tell as well if you have any medical history or current medications (vitamins or herbal remedies).
- Consult your doctor first if you are pregnant or breastfeeding women.
- Inform your doctor if you have certain blood disorders, kidney or liver disease.
- Do not have any immunizations or vaccinations while taking Rifabutin.
- Keep this at room temperature far from heat or moisture.
