Rifaximin 550mg

Rifaximin 550mg — Uses and Benefits

Rifaximin 550mg is an antibiotic that works locally in the intestine and is mainly prescribed for liver-related and gut infections.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• To reduce the chances of recurrent hepatic encephalopathy in people with advanced liver disease
• To treat traveller's diarrhoea caused by certain bacteria
• Sometimes used for irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhoea, as advised by a doctor
• Used in certain other gut infections only on a doctor's advice

HOW IT WORKS

• It stays mostly inside the gut and is barely absorbed into the blood
• It stops harmful bacteria in the intestine from multiplying
• By lowering toxin-producing bacteria, it helps reduce ammonia build-up that affects the brain in liver disease

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• It is not used for viral infections like cold or flu
• It is not a treatment for all types of diarrhoea, especially if caused by parasites
• It is not a painkiller or a general antibiotic for skin, chest, or urinary infections
• It should not be used without a doctor's prescription for self-diagnosed stomach problems

How to Use Rifaximin 550mg

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 says otherwise
• Swallow the tablet with a glass of water; do not crush or chew unless instructed
• Complete the full course even if you start feeling better
• Do not use it for longer than prescribed without medical advice

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 the expiry date printed on the pack
• Do not store leftover tablets for future use without consulting your doctor

Rifaximin 550mg — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Nausea
• Bloating or gas
• Mild stomach pain
• Headache
• Tiredness

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Dizziness
• Joint or muscle pain
• Skin rash or itching
• Change in taste
• Loss of appetite

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Severe or bloody diarrhoea (may indicate a serious gut infection)
• Signs of an allergic reaction such as swelling of face, lips, throat, or difficulty breathing
• Severe skin reaction with blistering or peeling
• Yellowing of eyes or skin, dark urine (possible liver problem)
• Persistent fever with stomach cramps

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

Rifaximin 550mg — Safety Information and Precautions

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

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to rifaximin or other rifamycin antibiotics
• Have a known intestinal blockage
• Have severe ulcerative colitis without medical supervision

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have severe liver disease beyond the condition being treated
• Are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding
• Have a history of bowel obstruction or severe gut disease
• Are taking other medicines, including herbal or over-the-counter products

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Other antibiotics
• Blood thinners such as warfarin
• Medicines that affect liver enzymes, as advised by your doctor
• Cyclosporine and certain other prescription drugs

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I take this medicine for normal diarrhoea?

No, it is meant for specific conditions like traveller's diarrhoea or liver-related complications; consult your doctor first.

Is this medicine safe for long-term use?

It can be used long-term for hepatic encephalopathy prevention only under regular doctor supervision.

Can I stop the medicine once I feel better?

• No, complete the full course as prescribed to avoid recurrence or resistance.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.