ExoticRx · exoticrx.com/drugs/rifampin
US brand names:Rifadin
Rifampin is dosed at 5–10 mg/kg PO q12-24h in dogs, per Hillier A, Lloyd DH, Weese JS, et al. Guidelines for the diagnosis and antimicrobial therapy of canine superficial bacterial folliculitis (antimicrobial guidelines working group of the international society for companion animal infectious diseases). Vet Dermatol. 2014;25(3):163-e43. — Verified against Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook, 10th Ed, p.1147 (2026-08-01).. Verify against current literature before clinical use.
Inhibits bacterial DNA-dependent RNA polymerase, blocking RNA synthesis. Excellent intracellular penetration.
Always use in combination (rapid resistance when used alone). Potent CYP inducer (many drug interactions). Orange/red discoloration of urine, tears. Hepatotoxic — monitor liver enzymes.
Species references:All Cat (Domestic) drugsAll Dog (Domestic) drugsAll Horse (Equine) drugs
Each ExoticRx dose rule is graded by the strength of its primary evidence — see the editorial process.
A dog/cat sample is shown here. Cited dosing for all 3 species — reptiles, birds, pocket pets, livestock, and equine — is free on the per-species pages above. Pro adds the weight-based calculator for every species.
| Species | Route | Dose | Frequency | Evidence | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dog (Domestic) | PO | 5–10 mg/kg | q12-24h | Moderate | Hillier A, Lloyd DH, Weese JS, et al. Guidelines for the diagnosis and antimicrobial therapy of canine superficial bacterial folliculitis (antimicrobial guidelines working group of the international society for companion animal infectious diseases). Vet Dermatol. 2014;25(3):163-e43. — Verified against Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook, 10th Ed, p.1147 (2026-08-01). |
| Cat (Domestic) | PO | 10–15 mg/kg | q24h | Weak | Malik R, Smits B, Reppas G, Laprie C, O’Brien C, Fyfe J. Ulcerated and nonulcerated nontuberculous cutaneous mycobacterial granulomas in cats and dogs. Vet Dermatol. 2013;24(1):146-153.e32-3. (Plumb's Rifampin ref 24, supporting the corroborating feline entry) doi:10.1002/9781118644317.ch20 — Verified against BSAVA Small Animal Formulary, 10th Ed, Part A, p.376 (2026-08-01). |
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View PlansSource citations and evidence levels available on the live page. Reference only — verify against current literature before clinical use.