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This medication is used to treat diarrhea caused by the common bacteria known as E. coli ("traveler's diarrhea"). Rifaximin should not be used if you have a fever or bloody diarrhea. This medication stays in the digestive system and is not absorbed into the blood. It works by stopping the growth of bacteria.This antibiotic treats only bacterial infections. It will not work for viral infections (e.g., common cold, flu). Unnecessary use or overuse of any antibiotic can lead to its decreased effectiveness.
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| Overview |
Photos |
How To Use |
Side Effects |
Precautions |
Missed Dose |
Drug Interactions |
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Rifaximin
Uses
This medication is used to treat diarrhea caused by the common bacteria known as E. coli ("traveler's diarrhea"). Rifaximin should not be used if you have a fever or bloody diarrhea. This medication stays in the digestive system and is not absorbed into the blood. It works by stopping the growth of bacteria.This antibiotic treats only bacterial infections. It will not work for viral infections (e.g., common cold, flu). Unnecessary use or overuse of any antibiotic can lead to its decreased effectiveness.
Notes
- Do not share this medication with others.This medication has been prescribed for your current condition only.
- Do not use it later for another infection unless told to do so by your doctor.
- A different medication may be necessary in those cases.
Storage
- Store at room temperature between 68-77 degrees F (20-25 degrees C) away from light and moisture.
- Brief storage between 59-86 degrees F (15-30 degrees C) is permitted.
- Do not store in the bathroom.
- Keep all medicines away from children and pets.
How To Use
- Take this medication by mouth, usually three times a day for three days, or as directed by your doctor.
- Each dose may be taken with or without food.Your dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy.Antibiotics work best when the amount of medicine in your body is kept at a constant level.
- Therefore, take this drug at evenly spaced intervals.Continue to take this medication until the full prescribed amount is finished, even if symptoms disappear after a few days.
- Stopping the medication too early may allow bacteria to continue to grow, which may result in a relapse of the infection.Tell your doctor if you are still having diarrhea after 1-2 days, if you have bloody diarrhea, or if you have a fever along with the diarrhea.
- Tell your doctor if your condition does not improve or if it worsens.
Side Effects
- Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects.
- Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.This medication may rarely cause a severe intestinal condition (pseudomembranous colitis) due to resistant bacteria.
- This condition may occur weeks after treatment has stopped.
- Do not use anti-diarrhea products or narcotic pain medications if you have the following symptoms because these products may make them worse.
- Tell your doctor immediately if you develop: persistent diarrhea, abdominal or stomach pain/cramping, or blood/mucus in your stool.A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs.
- Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction may include: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing.If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Precautions
- Before taking rifaximin, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to other rifamycins (rifampin, rifabutin); or if you have any other allergies.This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy.
- Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.It is not known whether this drug passes into breast milk.
- Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Missed Dose
- If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember.
- If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule.
- Do not double the dose to catch up.
Drug Interactions
- Your healthcare professionals (e.g., doctor or pharmacist) may already be aware of any possible drug interactions and may be monitoring you for it.
- Do not start, stop or change the dosage of any medicine before checking with them first.Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and nonprescription/herbal products you may use, especially of: live vaccines.
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CONDITIONS OF USE: The information in this database is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgement of healthcare professionals. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment.
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