Rifampicin
Also known as: Rifampin, Rifampicinum, Rifaldazine
Rifampicin belongs to the group of complex macrocyclic antibiotic. Rifampicin is a zwitterionic. Rifampicin results from a condensation reaction between 3-formylrifamycin SV and 1-amino 4-methylpiperazine. Most gram positive and many gram negative bacteria are sensitive to it. itthe major drug in the treatment of tuberculosis. iteffective in combination with ethambutol, isoniazide, streptomycin and the majority of second line drugs.
Primary Characteristics
Rifampicin is also known as Rifampin, Rifampicinum, Rifaldazine.
It is of Synthetic origin and belongs to Rifamycin.
It belongs to rRNA polymerase inhibitor pharmacological group on the basis of mechanism of action. It is also classified under Antituberculous Drugs .
Molecular Weight: 822.9 · pKa: 1.7, 7.9 · Solubility in Water: 1 in 300 · Solubility in Alcohol: 1 in 200 · Non-proprietary name: Rifampicin.

Pharmacokinetics
Absorption: Rifampicin has an oral bioavailability is 83% (±7%), pre-systemic (first-pass) metabolism accounts for 5.5% (±4.5%).
Distribution: Rifampicin has a volume of distribution is 1 l/kg. plasma protein binding is 60-80%.
Elimination: plasma half-life is 1-6 hr, renal excretion is 30%.
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Indications
Rifampicin is primarily indicated in conditions like Epilepsy (monotherapy), Iron-deficiency anaemia with chronic renal failure, Leprosy, Meningitis, Meningitis prophylaxis, Mycobacterial infection, Paget's disease of bone, Tuberculosis, Urinary tract infection.
Rifampicin is also indicated for secondary conditions like Brucellosis, Endocarditis, Gonorrhoea, Legionnaires' disease.
Contraindications
Rifampicin is contraindicated in conditions like Hepatic disease, Jaundice.
Dosage
Rifampicin's dosage details are as follows:
| Dose | Single Dose | Frequency | Route | Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adult Dosage | ||||
| 525 mg | 525 mg | — | PO | In 2-4 div.doses. Maximum dose: 600mg. Give 30 min before breakfast. Duration may vary according to indication. |
| Paediatric Dosage (20kg) | ||||
| 15 mg/kg | 15 mg/kg | Every 24h | Oral | Max 60mg/day |
| Neonatal Dosage (3kg) | ||||
| 15 mg/kg | 15 mg/kg | Every 24h | Oral | |
Drug Interactions
Always consult your physician for the change of dose regimen or an alternative drug of choice that may strictly be required.
Side Effects
Rifampicin in overdosage may give rise to further complications which include Flu-like syndrome , Thrombocytopenic purpura .
Rifampicin produces potentially life-threatening effects which include Sensitization, Shock- like syndrome. Careful monitoring is needed with proper medical management.
The signs and symptoms that are produced after acute overdosage of Rifampicin are Cardiovascular collapse, Red Man syndrome, Cutaneous pigmentation, Nausea & vomiting, Edema, Pruritus .
Rifampicin is known to cause more or less tolerable side effects which are usually transient. These include Abdominal discomfort, Anorexia , Nausea, Orange coloration of secretions, Vomiting .
Warnings / Precautions
Interference in Pathology
Rifampicin may interfere in the diagnosis of Colorimetric Tests of Bromsulphthalein for Liver Function , Assay of Bilirubin , Low values of Vitamin B-12 or Folate Estimation .
Available Brands
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Single Ingredient
Storage Conditions
Drug Classification
- 1.6.2.3 — Antileprosy drugs
- 2.6.2.4 — Anti-tuberculosis drugs