What is an expected side effect of rifampin regarding body secretions?

Rifampin, an antibiotic used primarily to treat tuberculosis and other bacterial infections, is known to cause a distinctive reddish-orange discoloration of bodily fluids, particularly urine. This side effect occurs due to the drug's ability to stain tissues and secretions, a characteristic associated with its chemical structure. The reddish-orange hue can also affect other body secretions, such as sweat, tears, and saliva.

This phenomenon is a benign and expected reaction to the medication, usually not requiring any changes to therapy unless accompanied by other concerning symptoms. Understanding this side effect is crucial for patient education, as individuals might perceive the discoloration as indicative of a harmful effect rather than a common and harmless reaction to the drug's metabolism and excretion.