Rifabutin (Systemic)

Brand Names : Mycobutin

Proper Use of This Medicine

Rifabutin may be taken on an empty stomach (either 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal). However, if this medicine upsets your stomach, you may want to take it with food.

For patients unable to swallow capsules :

• The contents of the capsules may be mixed with applesauce. Be sure to take all the food to get the full dose of medicine.

To help prevent MAC disease, it is very important that you keep taking this medicine for the full time of treatment . You may have to take it every day for many months. It is important that you do not miss any doses .

Dosing - The dose of rifabutin may be different for different patients. Follow your doctor's orders or the directions on the label . The following information includes only the average doses of rifabutin. If your dose is different, do not change it unless your doctor tells you to do so.

• For oral dosage forms (capsules):
  • For the prevention of Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC):
    • Adults and teenagers - 300 milligrams (mg) once a day, or 150 mg two times a day.
    • Children - Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.

Missed dose - If you miss a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double doses. If this medicine is taken on an irregular schedule, side effects may occur more often and may be more serious than usual . If you have any questions about this, check with your health care professional.

Storage - To store this medicine:

• Keep out of the reach of children.
• Store away from heat and direct light.
• Do not store in the bathroom, near the kitchen sink, or in other damp places. Heat or moisture may cause the medicine to break down.
• Do not keep outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed. Be sure that any discarded medicine is out of the reach of children.