The drug rifampicin is one of the most important tuberculosis drugs in standard therapy, which consists of rifampicin, isoniazid, pyrazinamide and ethambutol.

Rifampicin is administered over the entire 6-month duration of standard therapy and the dosage is based on body weight. If possible, it should be taken together with the other drugs at least 30 minutes before breakfast, as this is the most effective way. If this results in poor tolerance, it can also be taken after a light breakfast or in the evening.

A harmless side effect of the medication is the red coloration of many body fluids, such as urine or tear fluid. This is completely harmless and does not need to be treated.

Other possible side effects are allergic reactions with skin rashes and itching. The medication can damage the liver or change the blood count, so blood values must be checked at regular intervals. Alcohol should be avoided for the duration of the therapy in order not to put unnecessary additional strain on the liver. Nausea, fever or other side effects rarely occur. The doctors treating you should be informed of any side effects so that they can react to them and adjust the therapy if necessary.

Rifampicin has many interactions with other medications. All other medications should therefore be checked for interactions by the doctor treating you and the dosage may need to be temporarily adjusted. Drug-based contraception ("the pill") may be less effective during tuberculosis therapy.

If a medication in the standard therapy does not work or is intolerable, the composition and duration of the therapy can be changed. If the tablets are not taken regularly, the therapy may fail. The bacteria then begin to multiply again and can become resistant to the medication taken. This can lead to more complicated and longer treatment with poorer chances of recovery.