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Gastrointestinal
RIFAXITAS 550MG TAB
SALT COMPOSITION
RIFAXIMIN 550MGTYPE
TABLET
STORAGE
Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place. Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children and pets.
PRODUCT INTRODUCTION
RIFAXITAS 550mg Tablet, containing Rifaximin, is a specialized antibiotic primarily used to treat various gastrointestinal conditions. This medication is particularly effective due to its gut-selective action, meaning it works predominantly within the intestines with minimal absorption into the bloodstream. It is widely prescribed in India for conditions like Traveler's Diarrhea, Irritable Bowel Syndrome with Diarrhea (IBS-D), and to reduce the risk of overt hepatic encephalopathy recurrence. RIFAXITAS 550mg helps restore the balance of gut bacteria, alleviating symptoms and improving patient quality of life by targeting the root cause of bacterial overgrowth.
Uses of RIFAXITAS 550MG TAB
RIFAXITAS 550mg Tablet is prescribed for the treatment of several gastrointestinal conditions caused by bacterial overgrowth or imbalance, offering targeted relief and management.
- Traveler's Diarrhea
Used to treat non-invasive Traveler's Diarrhea caused by non-invasive strains of E. coli in adults. It effectively reduces the frequency and severity of loose stools by targeting the causative bacteria within the gut, helping patients recover quickly during travel and resume normal activities.
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome with Diarrhea (IBS-D)
Indicated for the treatment of IBS-D in adults. Rifaximin helps alleviate symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, and diarrhea by modulating the gut microbiota and reducing bacterial overgrowth, leading to significant improvement in quality of life for patients managing this chronic condition.
- Hepatic Encephalopathy
Prescribed to reduce the risk of recurrence of overt hepatic encephalopathy in adults. It works by decreasing the ammonia-producing bacteria in the gut, thereby lowering blood ammonia levels and preventing neurological complications associated with severe liver disease, improving cognitive function.
Side Effects of RIFAXITAS 550MG TAB
Like all medicines, RIFAXITAS 550mg can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them. Most side effects are mild and temporary and usually resolve on their own.
Common side effects
- Abdominal pain
- Nausea
- Flatulence
- Headache
- Dizziness
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of these rare but serious side effects, as they may require urgent medical intervention:
- Severe allergic reactions (rash, itching, swelling of face/throat)
- Severe diarrhea (possibly with blood or mucus, indicating C. difficile infection)
- Yellowing of skin or eyes (jaundice)
If any side effect bothers you or does not go away, please consult your doctor. Do not stop taking the medication without medical advice, and report any unusual symptoms promptly.
How to use RIFAXITAS 550MG TAB
- Adults:
For Traveler's Diarrhea: 200 mg three times daily for 3 days. For IBS-D: 550 mg three times daily for 14 days. For Hepatic Encephalopathy: 550 mg two times daily. Always follow your doctor's instructions regarding dosage and duration. Tablets can be taken with or without food.
- Children:
The safety and efficacy of Rifaximin 550mg in pediatric patients have not been established. Use only if specifically prescribed by a pediatrician, and dosage will be adjusted based on weight and condition. Close monitoring is essential for pediatric use.
- Elderly:
No specific dose adjustment is generally required for elderly patients. However, caution is advised in patients with severe liver impairment. Always consult a doctor for personalized advice, especially if other health conditions are present.
- Missed Dose:
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double the dose to compensate for a missed one, as this may increase the risk of side effects.
How RIFAXITAS 550MG TAB works
Rifaximin, the active ingredient in RIFAXITAS 550mg, is a non-systemic antibiotic belonging to the rifamycin class. Its unique mechanism involves inhibiting bacterial RNA synthesis by binding to the beta-subunit of bacterial DNA-dependent RNA polymerase. This action prevents bacterial protein production and replication, leading to a reduction in harmful bacteria within the gastrointestinal tract. Unlike many other antibiotics, Rifaximin is poorly absorbed from the gut, concentrating its effects locally where it's needed most, thereby minimizing systemic exposure and potential side effects.
Precautions
- Do not use if you are allergic to Rifaximin, other rifamycins, or any other ingredients of the tablet.
- Inform your doctor if you have severe liver disease or a history of severe diarrhea with fever or blood in stools.
- Prolonged use may lead to fungal infections or overgrowth of non-susceptible bacteria, requiring medical evaluation.
- Rifaximin is not effective for systemic bacterial infections as it is poorly absorbed into the bloodstream.
- Inform your doctor about all other medications, supplements, or herbal products you are taking to avoid potential interactions.
- Discontinue use and consult a doctor if symptoms worsen or new, unexplained symptoms appear during treatment.
Safety Advice
Alcohol
CONSULT YOUR DOCTORWhile there's no direct interaction between Rifaximin and alcohol, consuming alcohol can exacerbate gastrointestinal symptoms. It is advisable to consult your doctor regarding alcohol consumption while on this medication, especially if you have underlying liver conditions.
Pregnancy
CONSULT YOUR DOCTORRIFAXITAS 550mg is generally not recommended during pregnancy unless clearly necessary and prescribed by a doctor after careful consideration. Animal studies have shown some adverse effects, but human data is limited. Discuss the potential risks and benefits with your healthcare provider.
Breastfeeding
CONSULT YOUR DOCTORIt is unknown whether Rifaximin passes into breast milk. As a precautionary measure, it is advisable to consult your doctor before breastfeeding while taking RIFAXITAS 550mg. Your doctor will weigh the benefits against potential risks to the infant.
Driving
SAFERIFAXITAS 550mg is generally considered safe for driving. It is not known to impair your ability to drive or operate machinery. However, if you experience dizziness or any other side effects that affect your concentration, avoid driving until you feel well.
Kidney
SAFE IF PRESCRIBEDRifaximin is minimally absorbed and primarily excreted unchanged in the faeces, so dose adjustment is generally not required in patients with kidney impairment. However, always inform your doctor about your kidney health before starting this medication for personalized advice.
Liver
CAUTIONWhile Rifaximin is poorly absorbed, caution is advised in patients with severe liver impairment (Child-Pugh Class C) due to potentially increased systemic exposure. Discuss your liver condition thoroughly with your doctor before taking RIFAXITAS 550mg.
Fact Box
Frequently asked questions by patients
Q: Can RIFAXITAS 550mg be taken with food?
A: Yes, RIFAXITAS 550mg tablets can be taken with or without food. It does not significantly affect the absorption or efficacy of the medication, offering flexibility in administration. Follow your doctor's specific instructions.
Q: How long does it take for RIFAXITAS 550mg to work?
A: The onset of action varies depending on the condition being treated. For Traveler's Diarrhea, improvement may be seen within 24-48 hours. For IBS-D or Hepatic Encephalopathy, it may take a few days to weeks to notice significant benefits as the gut microbiota rebalances.
Q: Is RIFAXITAS 550mg a strong antibiotic?
A: RIFAXITAS 550mg is a potent antibiotic, but its strength lies in its gut-selective action. It is highly effective against specific gut bacteria without causing widespread systemic effects, making it a targeted and efficient treatment for gastrointestinal conditions.
Q: Can I stop taking RIFAXITAS 550mg if I feel better?
A: No, it is crucial to complete the full course of RIFAXITAS 550mg as prescribed by your doctor, even if your symptoms improve. Stopping early can lead to incomplete treatment, potential recurrence of the infection or condition, and development of antibiotic resistance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is RIFAXITAS 550mg Tablet used for?
RIFAXITAS 550mg Tablet is primarily used to treat Traveler's Diarrhea caused by non-invasive E. coli, Irritable Bowel Syndrome with Diarrhea (IBS-D), and to reduce the risk of overt hepatic encephalopathy recurrence in adults. It works by targeting specific bacteria in the gut responsible for these conditions.
Q: How does RIFAXITAS 550mg differ from other antibiotics?
The key difference is its gut-selective action. RIFAXITAS 550mg is minimally absorbed into the bloodstream, meaning it acts almost exclusively within the intestines. This reduces systemic side effects and drug interactions, making it an ideal and safer choice for treating gut-specific bacterial issues without affecting the entire body.
Q: Are there any dietary restrictions while taking RIFAXITAS 550mg?
Generally, there are no specific dietary restrictions while taking RIFAXITAS 550mg. However, maintaining a healthy diet and staying hydrated, especially during episodes of diarrhea, is always recommended for overall well-being. Consult your doctor for personalized dietary advice if you have specific concerns.
Q: What should I do if I experience severe diarrhea while on RIFAXITAS 550mg?
If you develop severe diarrhea, especially with fever or blood/mucus in your stools, while taking RIFAXITAS 550mg or even after stopping it, contact your doctor immediately. This could be a sign of a more serious infection, such as Clostridioides difficile-associated diarrhea, which requires prompt medical evaluation and treatment.
Q: Can RIFAXITAS 550mg be used for all types of diarrhea?
No, RIFAXITAS 550mg is specifically indicated for Traveler's Diarrhea caused by non-invasive E. coli and diarrhea associated with IBS-D. It is not effective against diarrhea caused by other pathogens, viral infections, or systemic bacterial infections. Always consult a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment of your specific type of diarrhea.
Additional Information
RIFAXITAS 550mg Tablet offers a targeted and effective solution for managing specific gastrointestinal conditions such as Traveler's Diarrhea, Irritable Bowel Syndrome with Diarrhea (IBS-D), and the prevention of hepatic encephalopathy recurrence. Its unique gut-selective action minimizes systemic absorption, concentrating its therapeutic effects where they are most needed within the intestines. This makes it a valuable option for patients seeking relief from these challenging conditions with a favorable safety profile compared to broad-spectrum systemic antibiotics.