zyrifa capsule - Isoniazid (NA) + Rifampicin (NA) medicine

Exact 4 Tablet: A Comprehensive Guide to Its Uses, Side Effects, and Safety

No reviews yet
🏭 Zydus Cadila 📦 Varies by brand 💊 Allopathy 📅 Updated: Sep 23, 2026
⚠️ Nephrotoxicity Risk 📋 Prescription Required 💊 Generic Available
Medically Reviewed
11 min read
Evidence: Well-established
Reviewed by
SaathiMed Expert Panel | Sep 23, 2026

When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY

  • Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
  • Dark urine or pale stools
  • Severe abdominal pain, especially in the right upper quadrant
  • Persistent vomiting or inability to keep fluids down
  • Unusual bleeding or bruising
  • Swelling of the face, lips, or throat, or difficulty breathing
  • Seizures or severe dizziness
  • Decreased urine output or swelling in the legs

If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.

What is zyrifa capsule used for?

This medicine is a combination of isoniazid and rifampicin, used to treat tuberculosis. It works by killing the bacteria that cause TB. It is taken orally, usually once daily on an empty stomach, and must be used exactly as prescribed to prevent resistance.

  • Generic Name: Isoniazid (NA) + Rifampicin (NA)
  • Manufacturer: Zydus Cadila
  • Form: Allopathy
  • Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
  • Prescription Required: Yes

🇮🇳 zyrifa capsule के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

उपयोग: यह दवा तपेदिक (टीबी) के इलाज के लिए इस्तेमाल की जाती है। इसमें आइसोनियाजिड और रिफैम्पिसिन दो प्रभावी एंटी-टीबी दवाएं शामिल हैं। यह टीबी के बैक्टीरिया को मारती है और संक्रमण को फैलने से रोकती है। यह दवा फेफड़ों की टीबी के साथ-साथ शरीर के अन्य हिस्सों की टीबी के लिए भी दी जाती है। इसे डॉक्टर के निर्देशानुसार नियमित रूप से लेना बहुत जरूरी है।

साइड इफेक्ट्स: आम दुष्प्रभावों में जी मिचलाना, उल्टी, पेट में असहजता, भूख न लगना और थकान शामिल हैं। रिफैम्पिसिन के कारण पेशाब, पसीना और आंसू नारंगी-लाल रंग के हो सकते हैं, जो हानिकारक नहीं है। आइसोनियाजिड से हाथ-पैरों में झुनझुनी या सुन्नपन हो सकता है। गंभीर दुष्प्रभावों में लिवर की समस्या, एलर्जी और खून की कमी शामिल हैं। कोई भी गंभीर लक्षण दिखने पर तुरंत डॉक्टर से संपर्क करें।

सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को डॉक्टर के बताए अनुसार ही लें, आमतौर पर खाली पेट पानी के साथ। शराब का सेवन बिल्कुल न करें क्योंकि इससे लिवर को नुकसान हो सकता है। अगर आपको पहले से लिवर या किडनी की बीमारी है, तो डॉक्टर को बताएं। नियमित जांच कराते रहें। बिना डॉक्टर की सलाह के दवा बंद न करें, वरना टीबी दोबारा हो सकती है और दवा का असर कम हो सकता है। गर्भनिरोधक गोलियों का असर कम हो सकता है, इसलिए अतिरिक्त सावधानी बरतें।

💡 Did You Know? The Indian pharmaceutical market is expected to reach $130 billion by 2030.

💊 zyrifa capsule Uses & Benefits

[{"condition":"Active pulmonary tuberculosis","description":"Used as part of a combination regimen to treat drug-susceptible pulmonary TB.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Extrapulmonary tuberculosis","description":"Effective in TB affecting lymph nodes, bones, joints, urinary tract, and other sites.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Latent tuberculosis infection","description":"May be used in certain regimens to prevent progression to active TB.","evidence":"Established"},{"condition":"Tuberculous meningitis","description":"Included in initial therapy for TB meningitis in combination with other drugs.","evidence":"Well-established"}]

Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Atypical mycobacterial infections","description":"Occasionally used in combination for infections caused by non-tuberculous mycobacteria, based on susceptibility testing.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Prosthetic joint infections","description":"Rarely used as part of combination therapy for biofilm-related infections when susceptible organisms are identified.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Primary treatment for: Tuberculosis

Also treats: Latent tuberculosis infection, Tuberculous meningitis, Extrapulmonary tuberculosis

📋 Drug Information

Generic Name(s)Isoniazid (NA) + Rifampicin (NA)
Brand Namezyrifa capsule
ManufacturerZydus Cadila
Packaging / FormVaries by brand (Allopathy)
Therapeutic ClassANTI INFECTIVES
Action Class
Route of AdministrationOral
StorageStore at room temperature between 15°C and 30°C (59°F to 86°F). Protect from moisture and light. Keep in the original container.
Shelf LifeTypically 24 months from the date of manufacture, but refer to the packaging for the exact expiry date.
WHO GuidelineThe World Health Organization recommends isoniazid and rifampicin as first-line agents for the treatment of drug-susceptible tuberculosis. They are included in standard regimens for both intensive and continuation phases.
ICMR GuidelineThe Indian Council of Medical Research recommends isoniazid and rifampicin as part of the standard antitubercular regimen for tuberculosis in India, under the Revised National Tuberculosis Control Program (RNTCP) guidelines.

👨‍⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips

Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians

1
Take this medicine on an empty stomach, at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals, for best absorption.
2
Avoid alcohol completely during treatment to reduce the risk of liver damage.
3
Report any yellowing of eyes or skin, dark urine, or persistent nausea to your doctor immediately.
4
Use a backup contraceptive method if you are on oral contraceptives, as rifampicin reduces their effectiveness.
5
Consider pyridoxine (vitamin B6) supplementation to prevent peripheral neuropathy, especially if you have diabetes or are malnourished.
6
Do not stop the medicine early, even if you feel better, to prevent drug resistance.
7
Keep all follow-up appointments for monitoring liver function and treatment response.

🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?

Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.

Persistent cough for more than 2 weeks
This medicine is commonly prescribed for tuberculosis, which can present with chronic cough.
Likely Use
Fever with night sweats
These are common symptoms of tuberculosis.
Likely Use
Common cold
This medicine is not effective for viral infections like the common cold.
Not Primary
Skin rash
This medicine is not used for skin rashes unless they are due to TB.
Not Primary

🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)

Pharmacokinetics

AbsorptionIsoniazid is rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, with peak plasma concentrations occurring within 1 to 2 hours. Rifampicin is also well absorbed, but food can delay and slightly reduce absorption; peak levels occur about 2 to 4 hours after an oral dose on an empty stomach.
DistributionIsoniazid distributes widely into body tissues and fluids, including cerebrospinal fluid, and crosses the placenta. Rifampicin is highly lipophilic and penetrates well into most tissues and body fluids, including cerebrospinal fluid when meninges are inflamed.
Protein BindingIsoniazid is about 10% bound to plasma proteins. Rifampicin is approximately 80% bound to plasma proteins.
MetabolismIsoniazid is primarily metabolized in the liver by N-acetyltransferase 2 (NAT2) to acetylisoniazid, and also by CYP2E1. Rifampicin is metabolized in the liver, mainly by CYP3A4, to desacetylrifampicin and other metabolites.
Half-LifeThe elimination half-life of isoniazid is about 1 to 4 hours, depending on acetylator status. Rifampicin has a half-life of approximately 3 to 4 hours, which may shorten with repeated dosing due to autoinduction.
ExcretionIsoniazid and its metabolites are excreted primarily in urine. Rifampicin and its metabolites are excreted mainly in bile and urine, with enterohepatic recirculation.
BioavailabilityIsoniazid oral bioavailability is approximately 80-90%. Rifampicin oral bioavailability is about 90-95% when taken on an empty stomach.
Onset of ActionThe onset of antitubercular action is not immediate; clinical improvement may take weeks. However, the drugs begin killing bacteria shortly after reaching therapeutic concentrations.
Peak Plasma TimeIsoniazid peak plasma time is 1-2 hours; rifampicin peak plasma time is 2-4 hours.
Duration of ActionThe antibacterial effect persists as long as therapeutic drug concentrations are maintained. With usual dosing, effective levels last for about 12-24 hours, depending on the drug.

How It Works

This medicine combines two antitubercular agents with distinct mechanisms. Isoniazid is a prodrug activated by bacterial catalase-peroxidase (KatG) and inhibits InhA, an enoyl-acyl carrier protein reductase, blocking mycolic acid synthesis in the mycobacterial cell wall. Rifampicin binds to the beta subunit of DNA-dependent RNA polymerase, preventing transcription and RNA synthesis. The combination is bactericidal against Mycobacterium tuberculosis and helps prevent the emergence of resistant mutants.

Mechanism Steps

1
Isoniazid activation: Isoniazid enters the mycobacterial cell and is activated by the bacterial enzyme KatG.
2
Inhibition of mycolic acid synthesis: Activated isoniazid inhibits InhA, blocking the synthesis of mycolic acid, a vital component of the mycobacterial cell wall.
3
Rifampicin binding: Rifampicin binds to the beta subunit of bacterial DNA-dependent RNA polymerase.
4
Blockade of RNA synthesis: This binding prevents transcription, halting protein synthesis and leading to bacterial death.
5
Synergistic bactericidal effect: The two drugs act on different targets, resulting in enhanced killing and reduced resistance.

💡 How to Take zyrifa capsule

Strength: This medicine is available as a tablet. The specific strength is not provided in the available information.

1Take this medicine on an empty stomach, at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal, with a full glass of water.
2Swallow the tablet whole; do not crush or chew.
3Take at the same time each day to maintain consistent blood levels.
4If stomach upset occurs, you may take it with a light meal, but avoid high-fat foods.
5Do not skip doses; adherence is critical for cure and preventing resistance.

Dosage Information

Adult DosageThe dosage of this medicine is individualized based on the type of tuberculosis, body weight, and other factors. For active TB, it is usually taken once daily on an empty stomach. The dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function. Do not self-adjust the dose.
Pediatric DosagePediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician.
Elderly DosageElderly patients may require dose adjustments based on liver and kidney function. Close monitoring for side effects is advised. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician.
Renal ImpairmentDose adjustment may be needed in patients with severe renal impairment. Consult a clinician for individualized dosing.
Hepatic ImpairmentUse with caution in patients with hepatic impairment. Dose reduction or discontinuation may be necessary based on liver function tests. Consult a clinician.
Maximum Daily DoseThe maximum daily dose should not exceed the recommended therapeutic dose as determined by a qualified clinician. Do not exceed the prescribed dose.

Dosage Timeline

🌅 Morning ❌ ☀️ Afternoon ❌ 🌆 Evening ❌ 🌙 Night ❌

🍽️ Food Timing Guide

With food
Take on an empty stomach if possible
Food can reduce absorption of rifampicin.
High-fat meals
Avoid
High-fat meals can further reduce rifampicin absorption.
Tyramine-rich foods (aged cheese, cured meats)
Consume with caution
Isoniazid may interact with tyramine, causing hypertensive crisis.
Alcohol
Avoid
Increases risk of liver toxicity.

⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose

📌 Less than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Take the missed dose as soon as you remember.
💡 Continue with the regular schedule.
📌 More than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Skip the missed dose.
💡 Do not double dose to catch up.

⚠️ Side Effects of zyrifa capsule

✅ Common Side Effects

Nausea and vomiting (Common (5-10%))
Take with food if stomach upset occurs, but avoid high-fat meals. Consult doctor if persistent.
Orange-red discoloration of body fluids (Very common (>10%))
This is harmless and expected with rifampicin. Avoid wearing contact lenses if staining occurs.
Loss of appetite (Common (5-10%))
Eat small, frequent meals. Consult doctor if weight loss is significant.
Fatigue (Common (5-10%))
Ensure adequate rest. Report persistent fatigue to your doctor.
Peripheral neuropathy (numbness, tingling) (Uncommon (1-5%))
Report to doctor; pyridoxine supplementation may be needed.

🚨 Serious Side Effects

Drug-induced hepatitis (Uncommon (1-5%))
Seek immediate medical attention if you notice yellowing of eyes or skin, dark urine, or right upper abdominal pain.
Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) (Rare (<0.1%))
Call emergency services if you experience swelling of face, lips, or throat, difficulty breathing, or widespread rash.
Thrombocytopenia (Rare (<0.1%))
Report unusual bruising or bleeding immediately.
Acute kidney injury (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek medical attention if you notice decreased urine output or swelling.
Seizures (Rare (<0.1%))
Call emergency services if seizures occur.

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

Optic neuritis
Report vision changes immediately.
Lupus-like syndrome
Consult doctor if you develop joint pain, fever, or rash.
Flu-like syndrome
Report to doctor; may require stopping rifampicin.
Hemolytic anemia
Seek medical attention if you experience unusual tiredness or jaundice.

Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.

🔬 Drug Interactions

Drug Severity Effect
Ritonavir Major
Warfarin Major
Oral contraceptives Major
Ketoconazole Major
Methadone Major
Phenytoin Moderate
Carbamazepine Moderate
Corticosteroids Moderate
Diazepam Moderate
Verapamil Moderate

🚨 Major Interactions

  • Protease inhibitors (e.g., ritonavir, atazanavir)
  • Warfarin
  • Oral contraceptives
  • Ketoconazole
  • Methadone

⚡ Moderate Interactions

  • Phenytoin
  • Carbamazepine
  • Corticosteroids
  • Diazepam
  • Verapamil

🍷 Alcohol Interaction

Alcohol should be strictly avoided while taking this medicine because both isoniazid and rifampicin can cause liver damage, and alcohol increases this risk. Alcohol may also worsen peripheral neuropathy caused by isoniazid.

🔎 Check Your Other Medicines

Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.

🛡️ Safety & Warnings

🚫 Contraindications

["Known hypersensitivity to isoniazid or rifampicin","Acute liver disease or severe hepatic impairment","Concurrent use with certain antiretrovirals (e.g., protease inhibitors) where interaction is unavoidable","History of drug-induced hepatitis due to these agents"]

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

["Monitor liver function closely; discontinue if signs of hepatitis occur.","Use with caution in patients with alcohol use disorder.","Peripheral neuropathy risk with isoniazid; consider pyridoxine supplementation.","Rifampicin may cause orange-red discoloration of body fluids; this is harmless.","Rifampicin induces liver enzymes and can reduce efficacy of many drugs.","Use with caution in patients with diabetes; isoniazid may affect glucose control.","Avoid in patients with porphyria.","May cause false-positive urine glucose tests."]

🤱 Lactation Safety

Both isoniazid and rifampicin are excreted in breast milk in small amounts. They are generally considered compatible with breastfeeding, but monitoring the infant for jaundice or unusual symptoms is advised. Consult a doctor for guidance.

💊 Overdose Management

Overdose can cause nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, lethargy, and potentially seizures and metabolic acidosis. Immediate medical attention is required. Treatment is supportive and symptomatic. Activated charcoal may be given if within 1-2 hours of ingestion. Hemodialysis may be considered for severe isoniazid toxicity. There is no specific antidote for rifampicin overdose.

⏰ Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. If you miss multiple doses, contact your doctor for guidance.

Additional Safety Advice

General Safety

Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor, at the same time each day, preferably on an empty stomach with a full glass of water. Avoid alcohol completely while on this medicine because it increases the risk of liver damage. Inform your doctor if you have a history of liver disease, kidney disease, diabetes, or alcohol use. Regular blood tests to monitor liver function may be needed. Do not stop taking this medicine without consulting your doctor, even if you feel better, as stopping early can lead to treatment failure and drug resistance. Use additional contraceptive measures if you are taking oral contraceptives, as rifampicin can reduce their effectiveness. Avoid prolonged sun exposure if you develop sensitivity. Keep all appointments for monitoring and follow-up. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it is almost time for the next dose; do not double the dose.

👴 Special Considerations for Elderly

💡 For Patients Above 65

Elderly patients may be more susceptible to side effects, especially liver toxicity and peripheral neuropathy. Regular monitoring of liver and kidney function is advised. Dose adjustments may be necessary based on individual tolerance and organ function.

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

If you are planning pregnancy, discuss with your doctor. This medicine is generally considered safe in pregnancy when needed for TB treatment. However, effective contraception is recommended during treatment, and rifampicin can reduce the effectiveness of oral contraceptives.

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

If you undergo surgery, inform the surgical team that you are taking this medicine. It may interact with anesthetics and other medications. Your TB treatment should be continued uninterrupted unless advised otherwise by your doctor.

🦷 Dental Procedures

Inform your dentist that you are taking this medicine. Rifampicin can cause bleeding tendencies in rare cases, and isoniazid may interact with some dental anesthetics. Good oral hygiene is important, and your dentist may recommend precautions.

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏃
Maintain a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins to support recovery.
🥗
Avoid alcohol and recreational drugs to protect your liver.
😴
Get plenty of rest and gradually increase activity as tolerated.
💧
Practice good hygiene to prevent spreading TB to others.
🧘
Take your medicine at the same time every day to build a routine.
🌞
Keep your follow-up appointments and complete all tests.
🚭
Inform close contacts about your TB diagnosis so they can be screened.

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

While on this medicine, you may feel fatigued initially. Start with light exercises and gradually increase as you feel better. Avoid strenuous activities if you experience dizziness or weakness. Consult your doctor before starting any new exercise regimen.

🥗 Diet Recommendations

Eat a balanced diet with adequate protein to aid recovery.
Include vitamin B6-rich foods like poultry, fish, potatoes, and bananas.
Avoid high-fat meals when taking the medicine.
Stay well hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
Limit caffeine and avoid alcohol.

💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life

This medicine may cause fatigue or dizziness in some people. If you experience these, avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how it affects you. Most people can continue their daily activities, but it is important to listen to your body and rest when needed.

🛑 When to Stop This Medicine

Do not stop taking this medicine without consulting your doctor. If you experience severe side effects such as jaundice, persistent vomiting, or allergic reactions, contact your doctor immediately; they will advise whether to stop or adjust the treatment.

📅 Long-Term Use Effects

Long-term use of this medicine is generally required for tuberculosis treatment, typically for 6 months or longer. Prolonged use may increase the risk of liver toxicity and peripheral neuropathy. Regular monitoring of liver function and clinical assessment for nerve symptoms are recommended. With proper monitoring and adherence, long-term outcomes are favorable.

🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches

These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.

Directly Observed Therapy (DOT)

A healthcare worker observes the patient taking each dose to ensure adherence.

Evidence: Well-established
Nutritional support

Adequate nutrition helps improve outcomes and tolerance to TB treatment.

Evidence: Established

💉 Vaccination Considerations

💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated

The BCG vaccine is used to prevent severe forms of TB in children. This medicine is used for treatment, not prevention. Ensure other vaccinations are up to date, but live vaccines should be avoided during rifampicin therapy due to reduced efficacy.

📦 Storage Guide

✅ DO

Store at room temperature (15-30°C)

❌ DON'T

Do not refrigerate unless specified

✅ DO

Keep in original container

❌ DON'T

Do not transfer to unmarked containers

✅ DO

Keep away from direct sunlight

❌ DON'T

Do not store in bathroom cabinet

✅ DO

Keep out of reach of children

❌ DON'T

Do not use after expiry date

✈️ Traveling with This Medicine

When traveling, carry this medicine in its original packaging along with a copy of your prescription. Keep it in your carry-on luggage to avoid loss. Store at room temperature and protect from extreme heat or moisture. If crossing time zones, adjust dosing times gradually under medical guidance. Check customs regulations for carrying prescription medicines. Do not skip doses during travel.

💰 Cost Analysis & Savings

👥 Real Patient Stories

Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.

👤 A 35-year-old man diagnosed with pulmonary tuberculosis
He was prescribed this medicine as part of his TB regimen. Initially, he experienced nausea and orange urine, which worried him. His doctor explained that these were expected effects. He adhered to the schedule, took the medicine on an empty stomach, and avoided alcohol. After two months, his sputum test became negative, and he completed the full course successfully.
💡 Lesson: Understanding expected side effects and adhering to the prescribed regimen are key to successful TB treatment.
👤 A 50-year-old woman with diabetes and latent TB
She was started on this medicine for latent TB. Her doctor also prescribed vitamin B6 to prevent nerve damage. She monitored her blood sugar closely, as isoniazid can affect glucose control. She completed the therapy without significant issues and remained free of active TB.
💡 Lesson: For patients with diabetes, monitoring blood sugar and taking vitamin B6 can help manage potential side effects.

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

Q: How long does it take to work?

A: You may start feeling better within a few weeks, but it is essential to complete the full course as prescribed, which may last for several months, to fully cure the infection and prevent resistance.

Q: Can I stop taking this medicine when I feel better?

A: No, you must complete the entire course prescribed by your doctor. Stopping early can lead to relapse and drug-resistant TB.

Q: What should I do if I miss a dose?

A: Take it as soon as you remember, but if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double dose.

Q: Is it safe to take with other medicines?

A: This medicine can interact with many drugs, including blood thinners, oral contraceptives, and some antiretrovirals. Always inform your doctor about all medicines you are taking.

🤔 Common Patient Concerns

💭 These are the concerns patients most commonly raise

  • Can I take this medicine long-term?
  • Will it affect my liver function?
  • Can I drive after taking this medicine?
  • Does it interact with my diabetes medicine?
  • What if I miss a dose?
  • Can I drink alcohol while taking this?
  • Is it safe during pregnancy?
  • How long does it take to cure TB?

🔄 Substitutes for zyrifa capsule

View All

Alternative brands with exact same active ingredient:

Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.

🛑 Myths vs. Facts

  • Myth: You can stop taking this medicine once you feel better.
    Fact: You must complete the full course as prescribed to prevent relapse and drug resistance.
  • Myth: This medicine is only for lung TB.
    Fact: It is effective for many forms of TB, including extrapulmonary TB.
  • Myth: The orange urine means something is wrong.
    Fact: Orange-red discoloration of body fluids is a harmless and expected effect of rifampicin.
  • Myth: You can drink alcohol while on this medicine.
    Fact: Alcohol increases the risk of liver damage and should be avoided.

🔄 Alternative Options

Generic Alternatives

  • Isoniazid and Rifampicin combination (generic)

Brand Alternatives

  • Exact 4 Tablet

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

[{"medicine":"This medicine","composition":"Isoniazid + Rifampicin","uses":"Tuberculosis","notes":"Two-drug combination."},{"medicine":"Four-drug combination","composition":"Isoniazid + Rifampicin + Pyrazinamide + Ethambutol","uses":"Intensive phase of TB","notes":"Includes additional agents for broader coverage."}]

😊 Was this information helpful?

Browse Medicines A-Z

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
Back to Medicines Directory