Rifampicin
Rifadin (rifampin) is an antibiotic primarily used to treat tuberculosis and other serious bacterial infections. It works by inhibiting bacterial RNA synthesis and is typically used in combination with other antibiotics to prevent resistance development.
Rifadin is an antibiotic used to treat tuberculosis and other bacterial infections by blocking bacterial RNA production.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 202953
- Generic
- Rifadin
- Class
- brand-name
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Rifadin is used to treat tuberculosis (in combination with other anti-TB medications), leprosy, and to prevent meningococcal disease. It may also be prescribed for other serious bacterial infections as determined by a healthcare provider.
Rifadin inhibits bacterial DNA-dependent RNA polymerase, the enzyme responsible for transcribing DNA into RNA. This prevents bacterial protein synthesis and effectively stops the growth of susceptible bacteria.
Rifadin may cause harmless orange-red discoloration of body fluids and tears. It induces liver enzymes and can reduce the effectiveness of many medications including oral contraceptives, anticoagulants, and certain HIV drugs. Always used in combination therapy for TB to prevent resistance. Report any signs of liver problems, unusual fatigue, or yellowing of skin/eyes to your doctor.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 9, 2026. · Read our editorial policy