Rifampicin
Capsule or tablet
Quick Summary
Rifampicin is one of the most important TB medicines. It's always given with other TB medicines to prevent resistance.
Medical Uses
How it's taken
Usually taken on an empty stomach as part of a daily TB regimen.
Take it for the full course, even if you feel better, unless your doctor tells you otherwise. Don't share antibiotics or keep leftovers.
Your doctor decides the right dose for you and how long to take it.
Your doctor decides the right dose for you. Follow their instructions and the label.
Common Side Effects
Orange-red urine
And tears, sweat; harmless.
Nausea
Loss of appetite.
Liver problems
Jaundice: seek help.
Interactions
Birth control pills
Become less effective; use another method.
Many other medicines
Including HIV and diabetes medicines; check with your doctor.
Critical Warnings
Liver damage
Seek help for yellow eyes, dark urine or vomiting.
Contraception
Hormonal contraception may fail.
Severe allergic reaction
Black Box Warning: Swelling of the face or throat, difficulty breathing or a widespread rash: get emergency help.
Antibiotic resistance
Using antibiotics when they aren't needed makes them less effective for everyone.
Sources and further reading
Last updated 21 October 2026. For more detail, see these trusted health organisations.
- Rifampin: drug information(opens in a new tab) · MedlinePlus, US National Library of Medicine