Rifadin®
(Rifampicin Suspension 2%)
Rifadin® is a wide-spectrum antibiotic that targets bacterial cells with a vengeance and protects healthy cells from harm.
Ingredients
The active antibacterial ingredient in Rifadin® is Rifampicin. It comes in three forms:
- Capsules
- Tablets
- Suspension
Mechanism of action
Rifampicin® inhibits the activity of the enzyme DNA-dependent RNA polymerase in infected cells, hence inhibiting their growth and reproduction while healthy mammalian cells remain unaffected and protected.
Uses
Rifadin® is used particularly in the treatment of Tuberculosis and Leprosy. It specifically targets rapidly growing extracellular organisms as well as certain intercellular slow-growing bacterial organisms. These include:
- Mycobacterium tuberculosis
- Mycobacterium leprae
- Neisseria gonorrhoeae
- Staphylococcus aureus
- Staphylococcus epidermis
- influenza
- coli
- Streptococcus
Precautions & Contraindications
Rifadin® should not be taken by:
- patients with jaundice or those sensitive to rifampicin
- pregnant or breast-feeding women
patients with impaired liver function
Dosage & Instructions
Oral dosage should be taken on an empty stomach at least 30 minutes before a meal, or 2 hours after a meal.
For Adults:
Tuberculosis and Leprosy – Recommended single dosage is 10 mg/kg
For patients weighing less than 50 kg: 450 mg
For patients weighing 50 kg or more: 600 mg
Meningitis and Influenza – Daily dosage of 600 mg for 4 days
Other Infections – Daily dosage of 600 – 1200 mg given in 2 to 4 doses
For Infants and Children
Doses of 10-20 mg/kg body weight without exceeding 600 mg/day