What should you remember about the urine of a patient taking Rifampin?

Rifampin is an antibiotic that is used primarily to treat bacterial infections such as tuberculosis. One notable side effect of Rifampin is that it can cause bodily fluids, including urine, to change color. Specifically, it imparts a reddish-orange hue to the urine, which is an important clinical consideration for healthcare providers and patients alike. This change is due to the chemical properties of the drug and is not indicative of any underlying medical issue.

Understanding this side effect can help patients avoid unnecessary concern when they observe this coloration and inform them about normal variations associated with the medication. It is critical to differentiate this harmless side effect from other potential causes of urine discoloration that may indicate pathology.