Rifaximin Tablets

Rifaximin Tablets come with the branding “RIFAMUST” and are used in treating infectious diarrhoea that occurs in travellers (for adults and children aged 12 years and above) that is caused by coliform bacteria particularly E. coli, hepatic encephalopathy and IBS-D. Traveller’s diarrhoea refers to a condition that is characterized by the passage of loose stools believed to be due to an infection. Hepatic encephalopathy involves loss of brain function due to a liver disorder that hinders the efficiency of toxins filtration in the blood supply system. Irritable bowel syndrome is a gastrointestinal medical condition that mainly involves the large bowel.

Rifaximin Tablets contain ‘Rifaximin’ which belongs to a group of antibiotics that specifically act on the bowel and are useful in preventing the spread of infection due to the loss of beneficial intestinal bacteria. Therefore, it is also useful in the treatment of abdominal pain and diarrhoea. It should not be used in patients with diarrhoea associated with fever and bloody diarrhoea or diarrhoea caused by pathogens other than E. coli.

Medical Benefits

• This medicine comes under the antibiotic category used to treat conditions such as travellers diarrhoea, liver encephalopathy and Irritable bowel syndrome.
• It is used in the management of traveller’s diarrhoea due to non-invasive Escherichia coli.
• It is an antibiotic that is effective for both gram-positive and negative organisms, as well as aerobic and anaerobic organisms and ammonia bacteria.
• This is a dual-acting tablet that is a gastrointestinal-selective antibiotic that can combat various antimicrobial pathogens.
• It is bactericidal since it has a direct effect on the bacteria, and it eradicates the bacteria causing infections. Therefore, it plays an important role in seeking treatment and curbing the transmission of diseases.

Directions for Use

• Ensure to pay attention when reading labels on the packets and containers of the product.
• Follow the dosage instructions given on the pack and consult your doctor if you have any questions regarding the intake.
• Rifaximin Tablets should also be taken strictly away from meals at the right dosage recommended.
• Swallow the tablet with a cup of water.

Storage

• Keep them away from sources of light, heat, or moisture, such as direct sunlight, sources of summer heat, or excessive humidity.
• It can be closed firmly after each use to ensure that it stays as fresh and functional as possible.
• Away from children to eliminate chances of an accident happening to the small kids.

Precautions

• Ask your doctor before taking this medicine as it may interact with the immune system affecting drugs (cyclosporine) and blood thinners (warfarin).
• Rifaximin Tablets are not recommended to take while you are pregnant. Please consult your doctor if you have any concerns regarding this.
• This medication does not affect your ability to drive. However, do not drive or operate heavy machinery if you feel dizzy.
• Avoid usage of tobacco while on this medication.
• Prolonged intake of this medicine may cause diarrhoea caused by an overgrowth of bacteria known as C. difficile which can cause mild to severe diarrhoea to life-threatening colitis.

Side Effects

• Dizziness
• Fatigue
• Nausea
• Ascites (excess fluid build-up in the abdomen)
• Peripheral oedema (leg swelling)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I stop taking this medicine on my own?

No, complete the course of it as prescribed to prevent severe infections and antibiotic resistance.

Can I take this composition on my own?

Do not self-medicate with it to avoid antibiotic resistance. Use it only if prescribed by a doctor.

Does this medication affect diagnostic blood test results?

Yes, it can affect blood and liver function tests by increasing liver enzymes. Inform your doctor before the tests.

For how long is this composition prescribed?

It is typically prescribed for 3 days for traveller’s diarrhoea and 14 days for irritable bowel syndrome. Follow your doctor’s prescription.

Can I take the tablet with a blood thinner (Warfarin)?

No, it can interfere with warfarin. Inform your doctor if you are taking warfarin to adjust the dosage and avoid interactions.