About rifabutin
Rifamycin antibiotic
Used for
- Treating tuberculosis, usually with other medicines
- Preventing or treating Mycobacterium avium complex infection, especially in people with HIV
Usual adult dose
Tuberculosis: usually 300 mg once daily with other medicines. MAC prevention: 300 mg once daily.
Common side effects
- Red-orange discoloration of urine, tears, or other body fluids
- Nausea, abdominal pain, or diarrhea
- Rash or itching
- Low white blood cell or platelet counts
Important warnings
- Can cause uveitis, especially with clarithromycin or higher doses
- Liver injury and serious blood-count changes can occur
- Use with other appropriate medicines to prevent antibiotic resistance
- May reduce effectiveness of hormonal contraceptives
Pregnancy
Use only when the expected benefit outweighs potential risks; pregnancy-specific evidence is limited.
Breastfeeding
Rifabutin passes into breast milk; safety information is limited, so monitor the infant for adverse effects.
Interactions
- Strongly interacts with HIV medicines and other drugs affecting CYP3A enzymes
- Clarithromycin and azole antifungals can raise rifabutin levels
- Can lower levels of hormonal contraceptives, warfarin, and some other medicines
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.