Rifaximin is used to treat traveller’s diarrhoea caused by E. coli bacteria or diarrhoea caused by irritable bowel syndrome (a disorder in the large intestine).
This medicine may be used to treat other conditions as decided by your doctor.
Take Rifaximin exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not take more or less than instructed by your doctor.
Try to take it at the same time each day.
Take Rifaximin at regular intervals. Do not skip any doses. You must complete the entire course of this medicine. If you don't, the infection will not be properly controlled.
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.
DO NOT double a dose under any circumstances.
If you often forget to take your medicine, let your doctor and pharmacist know.
Alert your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- diarrhoea with fever
- bloody diarrhoea
- blockage of the bowel
- diarrhoea caused by other bacteria
as Rifaximin may not be suitable for you.
Do not take this medicine if you ever had an allergic reaction (rashes, breathlessness, swollen eyes) to similar medicines such as rifampicin.
Inform your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- severe liver disease
- bacterial infection that has spread throughout the systems of the body
Be sure to check with your doctor or pharmacist before giving this medicine to a child.
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Rifaximin may cause any of the following side effects: fatigue, nausea, swelling of the ankles, feet or hand, headache, joint pain, and muscle spasms.
If you develop rashes, breathlessness, swollen mouth or eyes, stop the medicine and inform your doctor quickly. These could be signs of an allergic reaction.
Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any of these medicines:
- blood thinning medicine e.g. warfarin
- medicine used in organ transplant or certain immune disorders e.g. ciclosporin
This list does not include all medicines that may interact with Rifaximin.
Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
Avoid alcohol.
Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.
Sign Out
