Rifabutin

• According to CDSCO guidelines, Rifabutin is used for:
• Treatment of Pulmonary TB, only in patients co-infected with HIV. It should never be used as a substitute for Rifampicin in TB patients without HIV co-infection
• Prevention of Mycobacterium Avium Complex (MAC) in persons co-infected with HIV
• H Pylori gastritis infection

When should one not use Rifabutin

• If you have an allergy to Rifabutin, rifampin, rifaximin or other similar medicines

Common side effects of this drug are:

• Nausea
• Loose stools
• Heartburn
• Abdominal pain
• Gastritis
• Rash
• Altered taste
• Muscle pain
• Discoloration of urine
• Discoloration of skin

Other General Warnings

• You have an allergy to Rifabutin, rifampicin, rifaximin, other medicines, or any other ingredient in Rifabutin.
• You have liver, heart, or kidney disease.
• You take hormonal contraceptive pills or instruments; Rifabutin may interfere with the action of hormonal contraceptives. Talk to your doctor if you plan to conceive, become pregnant, or are breastfeeding while on treatment with Rifabutin.
• You notice a change in the colour of your urine (orange-red), skin colour, or the colour of other body fluids.
• You wear soft contact lenses.

How Does It Work?

Interactions with other medicines

• Rifabutin can interact with many medicines and cause adverse side effects. It is advised to inform the doctor of all medication being taken to be checked for possible interaction issues. The following medicines may become inactive or less effective if taken along with Rifabutin:
• Antifungals like ketoconazole, itraconazole, fluconazole, and voriconazole
• Antibiotics such as Ciprofloxacin
• Antivirals such as Delavirdine
• Macrolide antibiotics like clarithromycin
• Hormonal contraceptives

Interactions with food items

• Avoid taking Rifabutin with acidic food and beverages. These include sugar, dairy products, fish, fresh meat, sodas, processed foods, and sweetened beverages.

Overdose

Missed a Dose