Rifabutin Medication Profile: Uses, Dosage, and Side Effects

Names of Medication

US Brand Name: Mycobutin (Rifabutin)

Pharmacologic Category

Rifabutin falls under the pharmacologic category of Antimycobacterials. Other medications in this category include Rifampin (Rifadin), Isoniazid (Nydrazid), and Ethambutol (Myambutol).

Dosing

Rifabutin is used to treat the following diseases in adults:

Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC) infection

Rifabutin is often used as part of a combination therapy for MAC infections. The typical dose is 300 mg once daily.

Helicobacter pylori infection

For the treatment of H. pylori infection, Rifabutin is used in combination with other medications. The usual dose is 150 mg twice daily for 10 days.
Remember, you should never adjust the dose of your medication without speaking with your doctor first.

Dosage Forms and Strengths

Rifabutin is available in the form of capsules, with a strength of 150 mg.

Administration Instructions

Rifabutin should be taken with a full glass of water. It can be taken with or without food, but taking it with a meal can reduce stomach upset.

Adverse Reactions and Side Effects

Rifabutin can cause several side effects. Some of these include:

Uveitis (rare)

Uveitis is inflammation of the uvea, the middle layer of the eye. Rifabutin can cause this because it can trigger an immune response in the eye. This side effect is more common in higher doses.

Rash (common)

Rash is a common side effect of many medications, including Rifabutin. It occurs because the drug can cause an immune response, leading to inflammation and rash.

Abdominal pain (common)

Abdominal pain can occur with Rifabutin use. It’s thought to be due to the drug’s effect on the stomach lining.

Leukopenia (uncommon)

Leukopenia is a decrease in the number of white blood cells. Rifabutin can cause this because it can interfere with the production of white blood cells in the bone marrow.

Contraindications to Taking Rifabutin

A contraindication is a specific situation in which a drug should not be used, because it may be harmful to the patient. Here are some contraindications for Rifabutin:

Severe liver disease

Patients with severe liver disease should not take Rifabutin, as the drug is metabolized in the liver and could exacerbate liver damage.

Concurrent use with certain medications

Rifabutin should not be used with certain medications, such as Voriconazole (Vfend), as it can lead to increased levels of Rifabutin, raising the risk of side effects.

Allergy to rifamycins

Patients allergic to rifamycins, a class of drugs that includes Rifabutin, should not take this medication due to the risk of an allergic reaction.

Drug to Drug Interactions

Rifabutin can interact with several other medications, which can affect how Rifabutin or the other medications work. Some of these include:

Ritonavir (Norvir)

Ritonavir can increase the levels of Rifabutin in the body, which can increase the risk of side effects.

Fluconazole (Diflucan)

Fluconazole can also increase Rifabutin levels in the body, leading to an increased risk of side effects.

Phenytoin (Dilantin)

Phenytoin can decrease the effectiveness of Rifabutin by increasing its metabolism in the liver.

Rifabutin in Pregnancy

Rifabutin is classified as category B by the FDA, which means it is not expected to harm an unborn baby. However, you should always inform your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while on this medication.

Rifabutin while Breastfeeding

Rifabutin is excreted into breast milk in small amounts. While it’s not likely to harm a nursing infant, you should talk to your doctor if you are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed while on this medication.

Estimated Cost of Medication

The estimated cost for a 30-day supply of Rifabutin (150 mg) is around $200 with a GoodRx coupon. Prices can vary depending on the pharmacy and location, and this price is subject to change based on negotiated agreements between pharmacies and pharmaceutical companies. Always remember that these are only estimates.

Brief Legal Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Reliance on the information provided here is at your own risk.
Brief Legal Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Reliance on the information provided here is at your own risk.