Rifapentine



PriftinŽ







Rifapentine

(RIF a pen teen)

U.S. Brand Names
PriftinŽ
Canadian Brand Names
PriftinŽ
Pharmacologic Category
Antitubercular Agent
Reasons not to take this medicine
  • If you have an allergy to rifapentine or any other part of this medicine.
  • Tell healthcare provider if you are allergic to any medicine. Make sure to tell about the allergy and how it affected you. This includes telling about rash; hives; itching; shortness of breath; wheezing; cough; swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat; or any other symptoms involved.
  • If you have any of the following conditions: Low white blood cell count or low platelet count.
What is this medicine used for?
  • This medicine is used to treat tuberculosis.
How does it work?
  • Rifapentine works to injure the bacteria and fight the infection.
How is it best taken?
  • To gain the most benefit, do not miss doses.
  • This medicine is usually taken with at least two other medicines.
  • Use prescription as directed, even if feeling better.
  • Take this medicine with food to prevent stomach upset.
  • Take this medicine with a full glass of water.
What do I do if I miss a dose? (does not apply to patients in the hospital)
  • Take a missed dose as soon as possible.
  • If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your regular schedule.
  • Do not take a double dose or extra doses.
What are the precautions when taking this medicine?
  • If you have liver disease, talk with healthcare provider.
  • If you have porphyria, talk with healthcare provider.
  • Check medicines with healthcare provider. This medicine may not mix well with other medicines.
  • Avoid alcohol (includes wine, beer, and liquor). Alcohol can worsen liver disease.
  • Tell healthcare provider if you are pregnant or plan on getting pregnant.
  • Tell healthcare provider if you are breast-feeding.
What are some possible side effects of this medicine?
  • Change in color of body fluids to orange.
  • Discoloration of contact lenses. Do not wear while taking this medicine.
  • Belly pain.
  • Diarrhea. Yogurt, Bifidobacterium bifidum , or Lactobacillus acidophilus may help. These products are available at health food stores or in some pharmacies.
  • Feeling dizzy. Rise slowly over several minutes from sitting or lying position. Be careful climbing.
  • Flu-like symptoms. These include headache, weakness, fever, shakes, aches, pains, and sweating. Mild pain medicine may help.
What should I monitor?
  • Change in condition being treated. Is it better, worse, or about the same?
  • Check blood work regularly. Talk with healthcare provider.
  • Follow up with healthcare provider.
Reasons to call healthcare provider immediately
  • If you suspect an overdose, call your local poison control center immediately or dial 911.
  • Signs of a life-threatening reaction. These include wheezing; chest tightness; fever; itching; bad cough; blue skin color; fits; or swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat.
  • Severe nausea or vomiting.
  • Not hungry.
  • Dark urine or yellow skin or eyes.
  • Feeling extremely tired or weak.
  • Any rash.
  • No improvement in condition or feeling worse.
How should I store this medicine?
  • Store at room temperature.
  • Protect from light.
  • Protect tablets from moisture. Do not store in a bathroom or kitchen.
General statements
  • If you have a life-threatening allergy, wear allergy identification at all times.
  • Do not share your medicine with others and do not take anyone else's medicine.
  • Keep all medicine out of the reach of children and pets.
  • Keep a list of all your medicines (prescription, natural products, supplements, vitamins, over-the-counter) with you. Give this list to healthcare provider (doctor, nurse, nurse practitioner, pharmacist, physician assistant).
  • Talk with healthcare provider before starting any new medicine, including over-the-counter, natural products, or vitamins.
Brand Names: