Rimactane

What is it?

An antibacterial rifamycin preparation available as capsules in 2 strengths. Brownish-red capsules marked CS 150 and CG contain 150mg of rifampicin and brownish-red/brown capsules marked CS 300 and CG contain 300mg of rifampicin. Also, RIMACTANE SYRUP, containing 100mg of rifampicin per 5ml. Also, RIMACTANE INFUSION as 300mg rifampicin powder in a vial.

Medical Uses

Prevention of meningococcal meningitis in patients not showing symptoms who are carriers of N. meningitidis, additional treatment in tuberculosis and certain mycobacterial infections.

Dosage

Adults, meningitis, 600mg twice each day for 2 days; tuberculosis etc. , 450 to 600mg each day. Children, meningitis, aged 1 to 12 years 10mg per kg of body weight 2 times each day for 2 days; up to 1 year, 5mg per kg of body weight twice each day for 2 days. Tuberculosis etc. , up to 20mg per kg of body weight each day to a maximum single dose of 600mg. Premature and newborn babies, 10mg per kg of body weight each day.

Special Care

Pregnancy, breastfeeding, elderly patients, poorly nourished or the very young, porphyria (inherited metabolic disorder involving porphyrins), liver disease (monitor function). Blood counts should be checked.

Possible Drug and Food Interactions

Corticosteroids, digitalis, anticoagulants, hypoglycaemics, cyclosporin, oral contraceptives, phenytoin, quinidine, analgesics, dapsone, anticholinergics, opiates. Adjustments of other drugs may be required.