Rifaximin 200mg

Rifaximin 200mg — Uses and Benefits

Rifaximin 200mg is used to treat infections and conditions related to the intestines.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Traveller's diarrhoea caused by certain bacteria
• Reducing episodes of hepatic encephalopathy (a brain condition caused by liver disease)
• Certain cases of irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhoea, as advised by a doctor
• Other intestinal bacterial infections as directed by your doctor

HOW IT WORKS

• It stops harmful bacteria in the gut from multiplying by blocking a protein they need to make copies of their genetic material
• Since it stays mostly in the gut and is not well absorbed into the blood, it acts locally on intestinal bacteria
• This reduces bacterial toxins and byproducts that can worsen diarrhoea or liver-related brain symptoms

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• It is not used for viral diarrhoea or common stomach flu
• It is not effective for infections outside the intestines, such as chest or urine infections
• It should not be used as a general painkiller or fever medicine
• It is not a substitute for oral rehydration solution in diarrhoea

How to Use Rifaximin 200mg

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor, in the dose and duration advised
• It can usually be taken with or without food, unless your doctor tells you otherwise
• Swallow the tablet with a glass of water; do not crush or chew unless your doctor says it is fine
• Complete the full course even if you start feeling better, to prevent the infection from coming back
• Drink plenty of fluids, especially if you have diarrhoea, to avoid dehydration

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Take the missed dose as soon as you remember
• If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue your normal schedule
• Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture
• Keep out of reach of children
• Do not use the medicine after its expiry date
• Dispose of unused medicine safely, do not flush it down the drain

Rifaximin 200mg — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Nausea
• Headache
• Bloating or gas
• Mild stomach pain
• Urge to pass stools

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Dizziness
• Tiredness
• Muscle spasms
• Joint pain
• Constipation

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Severe or bloody diarrhoea that does not improve
• Signs of an allergic reaction such as rash, swelling of face or throat, or difficulty breathing
• Severe stomach pain or fever along with diarrhoea (may indicate a serious gut infection)
• Yellowing of skin or eyes
• Unusual weakness or confusion

This is not a complete list. Report any unusual or persistent symptom to your doctor or pharmacist.

Rifaximin 200mg — Safety Information and Precautions

This is a prescription-only medicine in India and should be used only under a doctor's supervision.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to rifaximin or other rifamycin antibiotics
• Have a bowel obstruction or severe intestinal blockage
• Have been advised against it by your doctor for any other reason

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have severe liver disease
• Are pregnant or planning pregnancy
• Are breastfeeding
• Have a history of bloody diarrhoea or fever with your current illness
• Are taking any other medicines, including over-the-counter drugs or supplements

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Cyclosporine, as it may increase rifaximin levels in blood
• Blood thinners like warfarin, as effects may change
• Other antibiotics, as combined use should be guided by a doctor
• Always share your complete medicine list with your doctor or pharmacist

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I take this medicine for normal loose motions?

No, it should only be used for the specific type of diarrhoea or condition your doctor has diagnosed.

Is this medicine safe for long-term use?

Some conditions like hepatic encephalopathy may require longer courses, but this should always be decided and monitored by a doctor.

Will this medicine make me feel drowsy?

• Drowsiness is not a common effect, but if you feel dizzy or unusually tired, avoid driving and inform your doctor.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.