Information about Rifaximin

Generic Name : Rifaximin
Pronunciation : ri fax' i men

Latest prescription information about Rifaximin. Learn how to pronounce the drug's name, its indications, dosage, how to take, when to take, when not to take, side effects, special precautions, warnings and its storage instructions . Also listed are the International and Indian trade name(s) of the drug and its price list.

Therapeutic Classification : Antibiotics

Trade Names/Brand Names of Rifaximin

India :

International :

Rcifax Tab

Why is Rifaximin Prescribed? (Indications)

This medication is an antibiotic, prescribed for traveler's diarrhea caused by certain bacteria and liver disease affecting the brain (hepatic encephalopathy). It prevents the growth of bacteria inside the intestine (gut).

When should Rifaximin not be taken? (Contraindications)

Hypersensitivity.

What is the dosage of Rifaximin?

Traveler’s Diarrhea-It is administered orally in a dose of 600 mg in 3 divided doses for a 3-day course. For hepatic encephalopathy, it is administered as 1100 mg/day in 2 divided doses.

How should Rifaximin be taken?

It comes as a tablet to take by mouth. It is usually taken with or without food three times a day for 3 days.

What are the warnings and precautions for Rifaximin?

• Caution needed for pregnant and breastfeeding women, patients with history of severe liver disease,blood in stool, and any allergy.

• It may cause dizziness, do not drive a car or operate machinery while taking this medication.

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What are the side effects of Rifaximin?

•  Central Nervous System: Headache, abnormal dreams, dizziness, migraine, syncope, sleeplessness, fatigue.
•  Skin: Sunburn, clamminess, rash, increased sweating.
•  Eye and ENT: Ear pain, motion sickness, perception of sound within the human ear in the absence of corresponding external sound, nasal passage irritation, stuffy nose, runny nose.
•  Gastrointestinal: Constipation, vomiting, abdominal distension, diarrhea, dry throat, fecal abnormality, gingival disorder, hernia, dry lips, stomach discomfort, dysentery, blood in stool, loss of appetite, loss of taste.
•  Genitourinary: Blood in urine, bile salts in the urine, painful urination, urinary frequency, protein in urine.
•  Blood: Abnormal increase in the number of lymphocytes, monocytes, decrease in neutrophils.
•  Hypersensitivity: Allergic reactions, rash, edema, hives, itching.
•  Metabolic: Weight loss, dehydration.
•  Musculoskeletal: Joint pain, muscle spasms, muscle pain, neck pain.
•  Respiratory: Upper respiratory tract infection, difficulty in breathing.
•  Miscellaneous: Chest pain, uneasiness, weakness, hot flashes.