Rifampin (drug interactions)
Rifampin is an antibiotic commonly used in conjunction with isoniazid to treat tuberculosis. It is important to be aware of potential drug interactions that may affect its efficacy and safety. For instance, rifampin may interfere with the metabolism of vitamin D, although the implications of this interaction are not fully understood. As a precaution, individuals taking rifampin should ensure adequate vitamin D intake. Additionally, combining rifampin with St. John's wort can diminish its effectiveness, while ginseng may increase the risk of liver damage. Patients on anticoagulants like warfarin should communicate with their healthcare provider, as rifampin can reduce the effectiveness of these medications, potentially raising the risk of blood clots. Furthermore, rifampin may also decrease the effectiveness of oral contraceptives and certain antiviral and antifungal medications. Understanding these interactions is crucial for anyone prescribed rifampin to ensure safe and effective treatment.
On this Page
Subject Terms
Rifampin (drug interactions)
DEFINITION: A drug used with isoniazid for the treatment of tuberculosis.
INTERACTION: Vitamin D, St. John's wort, ginseng, various prescription medications
TRADE NAMES: Rifadin, Rimactane
Vitamin D
Effect: Supplementation Possibly Helpful
Rifampin, used with the antibiotic drug isoniazid to treat tuberculosis, might interfere with the metabolism of vitamin D. Although it is not clear whether this interaction actually causes vitamin D deficiency, one should be sure to consume adequate amounts of vitamin D as a general principle.
Other Interactions
There are several other potential interactions between rifampin and herbs, supplements, and prescription medications. Taking St. John's wort with rifampin can decrease its effectiveness. Additionally, taking rifampin with ginseng can increase the risk of liver damage. Patients should inform their healthcare provider if they are taking anticoagulants like warfarin, as rifampin may decrease their effectiveness, leading to an increased risk of blood clots. Rifampin can also decrease the effectiveness of oral contraceptives, antiretroviral medications, and antifungal medications.
Bibliography
Bueno-Sánchez, J. G., et al. "Anti-tubercular Activity of Eleven Aromatic and Medicinal Plants Occurring in Colombia." Biomedica, vol. 29, no. 1, 2009, pp. 51-60.
Lalloo, U. G., and A. Ambaram. "New Antituberculous Drugs in Development." Current HIV/AIDS Reports, vol. 7, no. 3, 2010, pp. 143-151.
MacDougall, Conan, Theora Canonica, Chris Keh, Bihn An P. Phan, and Janice Louie. "Systematic Review of Drug-Drug Interactions Between Rifamycins and Anticoagulant and Antiplatelet Agents and Considerations for Management." Pharmacotherapy, vol. 42, no. 4, 2022, pp. 343-361, DOI: 10.1002/phar.2672. Accessed 20 Dec. 2022.
"Rifampin Capsules: Uses, Interactions & Side Effects." Cleveland Clinic, my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/18812-rifampin-capsules. Accessed 11 Sept. 2024.