Rifaximin 400mg

Rifaximin 400mg — Uses and Benefits

Rifaximin 400mg is mainly used to treat infections and conditions related to the intestines caused by certain bacteria.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Treatment of traveller's diarrhoea caused by certain strains of bacteria
• Reducing the risk of hepatic encephalopathy (a brain complication of liver disease) from recurring
• Managing certain cases of irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhoea, as advised by a doctor
• Treating small intestinal bacterial overgrowth in some cases, as prescribed

HOW IT WORKS

• Rifaximin stays largely within the gut instead of being absorbed into the bloodstream
• It stops harmful bacteria in the intestine from multiplying by blocking a protein they need to make
• This reduces bacterial toxins and by-products that cause diarrhoea or worsen liver-related brain symptoms

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• It is not used for viral diarrhoea or common stomach upset
• It is not effective against infections outside the gut, such as chest or urinary infections
• It should not be used as a general antibiotic for unrelated illnesses
• It is not a treatment for constipation or general digestive discomfort without a bacterial cause

How to Use Rifaximin 400mg

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 returning
• Do not use leftover tablets for a future illness without consulting your doctor

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 the tablets in their original pack until it is time to take them
• Keep out of reach of children and pets
• Discard any expired or unused medicine safely, as advised by your pharmacist

Rifaximin 400mg — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

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

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Dizziness
• Tiredness
• Muscle spasms
• Joint pain
• Fever

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Signs of a severe allergic reaction such as rash, swelling of face or throat, or difficulty breathing
• Severe or bloody diarrhoea that does not improve, which may indicate a serious bowel infection
• Yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine, suggesting liver problems
• Severe stomach pain with fever

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

Rifaximin 400mg — Safety Information and Precautions

This medicine is available only with a doctor's prescription in India. Do not use it without medical advice.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to rifaximin or any other rifamycin antibiotic
• Have a known bowel obstruction
• Have been advised against it by your doctor for any other specific reason

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have severe liver disease
• Are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding
• Have a history of bowel diseases such as ulcerative colitis
• Are taking other medicines, including herbal or over-the-counter products
• Develop diarrhoea that is bloody or does not improve during treatment

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Cyclosporine and other medicines that affect certain liver transport proteins
• Warfarin or other blood-thinning medicines, as monitoring may be needed
• Other antibiotics, unless specifically prescribed together by your doctor

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I stop taking it once my diarrhoea improves?

No, complete the full course as prescribed even if you feel better, unless your doctor advises otherwise.

Is this medicine safe for long-term use?

In certain conditions like liver disease, doctors may prescribe it long-term with regular monitoring; follow your doctor's guidance.

Can I take it with other medicines for stomach problems?

• Only if your doctor or pharmacist confirms it is safe, since some combinations need caution.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.