This medication is used alone or with another medication to help prevent a certain serious infection (Mycobacterium avium complex-MAC).
This antibiotic treats and prevents only bacterial infections. It will not work for viral infections (such as common cold, flu). Unnecessary use or misuse of any antibiotic can lead to its decreased effectiveness.
OTHER USES:
This drug may also be used with other medications to treat active MAC infection and to treat active tuberculosis (TB) infection. It may also be used alone or with another medication to prevent active TB infections in people who may be infected with the bacteria (people with positive TB skin test).
How to use rifabutin
Take this medication by mouth with or without food, usually once or twice daily or as directed by your doctor. Take this medication with food if stomach upset occurs. For the treatment of tuberculosis, this drug is sometimes taken twice weekly.
If needed, the contents of the capsule may be mixed with foods like applesauce. Take the mixture right away. Do not store for future use.
Dosage is based on your medical condition, weight, interacting drugs, and response to treatment.
Antibiotics work best when the amount of medicine in your body is kept at a constant level. Therefore, take this drug at evenly spaced intervals. To help you remember, take it at the same time(s) each day.
Continue to take this medication until the full prescribed amount is finished, even if symptoms disappear. Stopping the medication too early or skipping doses may allow the bacteria to continue to grow, which may result in a return of the infection and cause the infection to be more difficult to treat (resistant).
Do not wear contact lenses while you are taking rifabutin. Sterilize contact lenses according to manufacturer’s directions and check with your doctor before using them.
Tell your doctor if your condition persists or worsens.
