MYCOBUTIN (RIFABUTIN)

Mycobutin Description

Mycobutin or generic Rifabutin is a prescription antibiotic prescribed to prevent a certain bacteria from multiplying in your body. Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC) may be found in people with suppressed immune systems, like patients with HIV or AIDS. Because your body is unable to fight off other infections, Mycobutin can help stop the MAC bacteria from taking hold and causing you further grief that could leave you in worse condition. The generic alternative is not manufactured by the company that makes the brand product.

Stop the Threat of the MAC Bacteria Infecting You

Mycobutin or the generic alternative Rifabutin work by targeting and inactivating a bacterial enzyme called RNA-polymerase. Bacteria use this enzyme to produce essential proteins and to copy their own DNA. Bacteria cannot reproduce without this enzyme and therefore die. MAC bacteria are found in food, water, and soil so there is no easy way to avoid them. In those with HIV or AIDS, once their CD4 cell count gets below 50, your doctor may prescribe Mycobutin as a preventative measure as chances of getting MAC are very high.

Conditions Treated by Mycobutin

Mycobutin is frequently prescribed for treating tuberculosis (TB) in HIV/AIDS patients. The Mycobacterium that causes TB is transmitted through the inhalation of tiny particles of infected sputum from the air. If a person with tuberculosis coughs, sneezes, shouts, or spits, people nearby may breathe the bacteria into their lungs.

Tuberculosis is a very real threat for people with suppressed immune systems. The body’s low defenses cannot fight off the bacteria and the lungs and other organs become infected. This has become a vicious circle, as more people with HIV become infected with TB; the more people there are to spread it. Regular doctor visits are very important in order to monitor your CD4 levels so early treatment can be started with Mycobutin or generic Rifabutin.

Before Mycobutin is Prescribed to You

Be sure to provide your doctor with a complete medical history before you start taking Mycobutin as well as a list of all medications you are taking. Mycobutin or generic Rifabutin increases the activity of enzymes in the liver that break down various medicines. As a result, it can increase the removal of these medicines from the body, making them less effective.

Mycobutin Risks and Precautions

Treatment with Mycobutin can cause inflammation of the bowel. If you get diarrhea that becomes severe or persistent or contains blood or mucus, either during or after taking this medicine, you should consult your doctor. Discuss all current drugs and OTC meds you take or use, including vitamin and herbal supplements so your doctor can determine is Mycobutin is safe for you to take.

Mycobutin reduces the effectiveness of hormonal contraceptives such as the pill, patch or mini-pill. You will need to use a different, non-hormonal, method of contraception to prevent pregnancy while you are taking this medicine and for four to eight weeks after stopping treatment. Keep all medications out of children’s reach and do not share them with others.

Possible Side Effects of Mycobutin

• Rash
• Muscle pain
• Upset stomach
• Discoloration of tears, sweat, and urine