Rifampicin+isoniazid
About Rifampicin+isoniazid
Rifampicin+isoniazid belongs to the group of medicines called anti-tuberculosis drugs primarily used to treat and prevent tuberculosis. Tuberculosis is an infectious disease that mainly affects the lungs, but it can also spread to other body parts such as the kidneys, brain, spine, and bone marrow.
Rifampicin+isoniazid is a combination of two anti-tuberculosis drugs, namely: Rifampicin, and Isoniazid. Rifampicin inhibits DNA-dependent RNA polymerase activity in the bacteria. Isoniazid inhibits the biosynthesis of mycolic acid, which is the major component of the cell wall. Together, Rifampicin+isoniazid kills Mycobacterium tuberculosis which causes TB (tuberculosis).
In some cases, you may experience certain common side-effects such as drowsiness, dizziness, headache, weakness, muscle pain, heartburn, diarrhoea, gas, and numbness or tingling sensation. Most of these side-effects do not require medical attention and will resolve gradually over time. However, you are advised to talk to your doctor if you experience these side-effects persistently.
Consult your doctor before taking Rifampicin+isoniazid if you are pregnant or planning for pregnancy. Avoid breastfeeding while taking Rifampicin+isoniazid as it passes into breast milk. Rifampicin+isoniazid may cause dizziness, and vision problems, so drive only if you are alert. Avoid alcohol consumption while taking Rifampicin+isoniazid as it could lead to increased drowsiness, dizziness and liver damage.
Uses of Rifampicin+isoniazid
Medicinal Benefits
Rifampicin+isoniazid is a combination of two anti-tuberculosis drugs, namely: Rifampicin, and Isoniazid. Rifampicin inhibits DNA-dependent RNA polymerase activity in the bacteria. Isoniazid inhibits the biosynthesis of mycolic acid, which is the major component of the cell wall. Together, Rifampicin+isoniazid kills Mycobacterium tuberculosis which causes TB (tuberculosis).
Directions for Use
Storage
Side Effects of Rifampicin+isoniazid
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Weakness
- Muscle pain
- Heartburn
- Diarrhoea
- Gas
- Numbness
Patients Concern
Disease/Condition Glossary
Tuberculosis (TB): Tuberculosis is an infectious disease that affects the lungs, but it could also spread to other body parts such as kidneys, brain, spine, and bone marrow. Tuberculosis is caused by a bacteria named Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It is a contagious disease which can spread to others through small droplets released into the air by a person suffering from tuberculosis. Symptoms include a cough that lasts for a few weeks, pain while coughing or with normal breathing, unexplained fatigue, fever, night sweats, loss of appetite and weight. People who smoke or consume alcohol, people diagnosed with HIV, and immune system problems are more likely at risk of developing active TB.
FAQs
Rifampicin+isoniazid is a combination of two anti-tuberculosis drugs, namely: Rifampicin, and Isoniazid. Rifampicin inhibits DNA-dependent RNA polymerase activity in the bacteria. Isoniazid inhibits the biosynthesis of mycolic acid, which is the major component of the cell wall. Together, Rifampicin+isoniazid kills Mycobacterium tuberculosis which causes TB (tuberculosis).
Do not stop taking Rifampicin+isoniazid despite symptomatic relief. To treat your condition effectually, continue taking Rifampicin+isoniazid for as long as it has been prescribed for you.
Do not take Rifampicin+isoniazid along with antacids as it might decrease the effectiveness of Rifampicin+isoniazid. Maintain a minimum gap of 1hour between both.
Consult your doctor before taking Rifampicin+isoniazid with other medicines. Medicines used to treat TB such as PAS (P-amino salicylic acid) and cycloserine should be taken 8hours apart from Rifampicin+isoniazid.
Rifampicin+isoniazid contains isoniazid which might interact with foods and drinks containing histamine or tyramine such as cured meat, matured cheese, soya, tuna, salmon, mackerel, wine, and beer. Avoid these foods while taking Rifampicin+isoniazid.
Rifampicin+isoniazid might decrease the effectiveness of oral contraceptives (birth control pills). This could lead to an unplanned pregnancy. Instead, use a reliable barrier method of contraception such as condoms or the coil while taking Rifampicin+isoniazid. Consult your doctor if you have any concerns regarding this; your doctor may suggest an alternate method of contraception.
Rifampicin+isoniazid may cause discolouration of teeth, sweat, urine, sputum (phlegm), saliva, or tears. The colour in tears may last for some time even after you stop taking Rifampicin+isoniazid. Do not worry as it is a common side-effect of Rifampicin+isoniazid.
Yes, Rifampicin+isoniazid might permanently stain soft contact lenses. Use spectacles and avoid wearing contact lens while taking Rifampicin+isoniazid.
Rifampicin+isoniazid may affect test results of some blood tests such as tests for folate, vitamin B12, and liver function. Inform the person doing the tests that you are taking Rifampicin+isoniazid.
Yes, Rifampicin+isoniazid may cause liver problems, especially in people who are 35 and older. Consult your doctor if you notice symptoms such as yellowing of eyes or skin, dark urine, pale stools, weakness, loss of appetite, nausea or vomiting. Your doctor may advise you to get regular liver tests while taking Rifampicin+isoniazid to check how your liver is functioning.
