Rifamax 200mg Tablets

Rifamax Tablet is an antibiotic medicine. It is used for the treatment of infectious diarrhoea and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) with diarrhoea in adults. It contains rifaximin as its active ingredient.

It works by killing the growth of bacteria that cause infectious diarrhoea. Rifamax Tablet should be used under medical prescription. It should be taken as directed by the doctor and in doses and duration as prescribed.

Dosage

Overdose

If you think you have taken too much of this medicine, contact your doctor immediately or visit the nearest hospital.

Missed a Dose

If you missed any dose of Rifamax Tablet, then take it as soon as you remember. However, if it's time for your next dose, then skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dose schedule. Do not take a double dose of medicine to compensate for the missed one.

Mode of Action

How Does It Work?

Rifamax Tablet slows down the bacterial growth by interfering with the mechanisms of cell growth in the bacterial cell. Thus, stopping the growth and multiplication of the infection causing microorganism. It does not get absorbed in the bloodstream and passes through the stomach and intestines. Therefore, it is primarily used to treat bacterial infections in the intestine.

Directions for Use

• Rifamax Tablet should be taken as directed by your doctor. Swallow it whole with a glass of water.
• It would be best if you took it at a fixed time for optimal results. You should not consume it more than that prescribed by your doctor.

Precautions and Warnings

Pregnancy

Can I take Rifamax Tablet during pregnancy?

Rifamax Tablet is not recommended during pregnancy as there is limited information about its safety in pregnant women. It is essential to consult a doctor before starting any medicine during pregnancy.

Breast Feeding

Can I take Rifamax Tablet while breastfeeding?

It is unknown if Rifaximin passes into human milk. Hence, you should not breastfeed, while taking Rifamax Tablet. Consult your doctor before using this medicine during breastfeeding.

Driving

Can I drive if I have consumed Rifamax Tablet?

Rifamax Tablet may cause dizziness. Thus, avoid driving if you do not feel well or are unable to be alert.

Alcohol

Can I consume alcohol with Rifamax Tablet?

There is no known interaction between alcohol and Rifamax Tablet. However, it is essential to consult your physician if you have a habit of regularly consuming alcohol.

Other General Warnings

Talk to your doctor if

• You experience symptoms like dizziness (or light-headedness), dry mouth, decreased urination and increased thirst.
• You experience severe diarrhoea while or after using Rifamax Tablet, discontinue taking the medicine immediately and contact your doctor.
• Consume enough fluids and keep yourself hydrated as diarrhoea can cause dehydration.

Contraindications

• If you are allergic to rifaximin or any other ingredients of the Rifamax Tablet.
• If you are suffering from any liver disease.
• If you have diarrhoea with blood or fever.
• If you have diarrhoea that is caused due to other factors but not bacteria, for example, viral diarrhoea.
• If you have symptoms of blockage in the bowel, abdominal pain or constipation.
• If you experience allergic reactions after using medicines like rifabutin, rifapentine or rifampicin.

Side effects

• Headache
• Fatigue
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Stomach pain
• Fever
• Gas

Interactions

Interactions with other medicines

• Rifamax Tablet may interact with other medications and provide an altered response to the treatment. Notify your doctor if you are undergoing any other treatments, over-the-counter medications (that you buy without a prescription) and herbal preparations. Also, inform your doctor if you have a planned surgery or vaccination scheduled.
• Medicines like erythromycin, warfarin, azithromycin, cyclosporine, diltiazem and anti-fungal medications might interact with this Tablet when taken simultaneously.
• Rifamax Tablet might also interact with cholera and BCG vaccines.

Interactions with food items

Avoid having grapefruit juice or the fruit itself while on treatment with Rifamax Tablet, to avoid any interaction.

Storage and disposal

• Store Rifamax Tablets at room temperature in a cool and dry place.
• Keep it away from children and pets.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is Rifamax Tablet an antibiotic?

Yes, Rifamax Tablet is an antibiotic medicine. It is used for the treatment of infectious diarrhea and hepatic encephalopathy.

What do I need to inform my doctor about the diarrhoea?

Give a detailed nature of the diarrhoea to your doctor, for example, if it is associated with fever or about the presence or absence of blood in the stools. Also, inform your doctor if you are taking any other antibiotic medications, as some antibiotics might cause diarrhoea.

For how long can I take Rifamax?

The doctor will prescribe the medicine to you for a specific duration, depending on the cause and severity of the medical condition. Do not take it for a longer time than your doctor prescribed.

Is there any side effect of Rifamax Tablet?

Nausea, flatulence (gas), stomach ache, headache, etc., are a few common side effects of Rifamax Tablet. However, not everyone experiences it.

Is Rifamax a probiotic?

No, Rifamax Tablet is not an antibiotic. It contains rifaximin, which is an antibiotic medicine.