Rifampin should be taken on which schedule?

Rifampin should be taken on an empty stomach to enhance its absorption and effectiveness. Taking it without food minimizes the potential for food interactions that could impair the absorption of the medication, which is particularly important given that rifampin is used to treat serious infections such as tuberculosis. When rifampin is absorbed well, its therapeutic effects are maximized, allowing for effective treatment of the infection.

Taking rifampin with meals or after meals could lead to decreased drug levels in the bloodstream, which may reduce its efficacy and increase the risk of developing resistance in pathogens that are being treated. Therefore, the best practice is to administer rifampin when the stomach is empty, typically at least one hour before meals or two hours after, to ensure optimal absorption.