Cefazolin and Rifampin interaction

Cefazolin and Rifampin: the Rifampin prescribing label flags this combination with the strongest language, such as a contraindication, a boxed warning, or an instruction to avoid it.

Major

Do not combine without a prescriber's guidance. The label language below is the strongest FDA uses.

What the FDA labels say

From the Rifampin label · effective 2026-05-05

Major

Postmarketing reports suggest that concomitant administration of high doses of cefazolin and rifampin may prolong the prothrombin time, leading to severe vitamin K–dependent coagulation disorders that may be life-threatening or fatal.

Warningsnames CefazolinView label on DailyMed
Major

Avoid concomitant use of cefazolin and rifampin in patients at increased risk for bleeding.

Warningsnames CefazolinView label on DailyMed

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Not medical advice. Interaction Checker quotes FDA label text and NIH fact sheets. Whether an interaction matters for you depends on doses, timing, kidney and liver function, and other conditions. Confirm with a pharmacist or prescriber.