Key takeaways
Rifampin (Rifadin) and levofloxacin (Levaquin) are both antibiotics, but they belong to different classes and treat different types of infections. Rifampin is a rifamycin antibiotic primarily used to treat tuberculosis (TB) and to prevent the spread of meningococcal bacteria in carriers. It can be taken orally or intravenously and is often used in combination with other TB medications. One unique side effect of rifampin is that it can change the color of your body fluids and teeth to an orange or red hue. On the other hand, levofloxacin is a fluoroquinolone antibiotic used to treat a variety of bacterial infections, including pneumonia, urinary tract infections, and skin infections. It is taken orally and is available as a generic. Levofloxacin has serious potential side effects, such as tendon rupture and nerve damage, and is usually reserved for more severe infections when safer options are not available. Both medications require careful monitoring and have specific guidelines for use to avoid complications.
