Rifaximin Tablets 400mg

Product Description

Generic Name: Rifaximin
Brand Names (may vary by country): RIFAFIT 400
Dosage Form: Tablet
Strength: 400 mg

What is Rifaximin?

Rifaximin is a broad-spectrum, non-systemic antibiotic derived from rifamycin. It is primarily used to treat gastrointestinal infections. Due to its minimal absorption in the bloodstream, it acts mainly in the gut, making it ideal for treating infections localized to the intestines.

Mechanism of Action:

Rifaximin inhibits bacterial RNA synthesis by binding to the beta-subunit of bacterial DNA-dependent RNA polymerase, preventing the transcription process. This ultimately stops bacterial growth.

Uses / Indications:

Rifaximin 400 mg is typically prescribed for:

• Traveler™s diarrhea (caused by E. coli)

• Irritable Bowel Syndrome with Diarrhea (IBS-D)

• Hepatic encephalopathy (to reduce recurrence by lowering ammonia-producing bacteria)

• Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) (off-label use in some regions)

• Other localized gut infections as determined by a physician

Dosage and Administration:

• Traveler™s diarrhea: 200 mg three times daily for 3 days

• IBS-D: 550 mg three times daily for 14 days (in some countries)

• Hepatic encephalopathy: 550 mg twice daily

• Other infections: As prescribed by a healthcare provider

A 400 mg tablet may be dosed accordingly based on the prescribed regimen.

Contraindications:

• Hypersensitivity to rifaximin or other rifamycin derivatives

• Diarrhea complicated by fever or blood in stools (may indicate invasive infection requiring systemic antibiotics)

Side Effects:

Common:

• Nausea

• Flatulence

• Abdominal pain

• Headache

Rare:

• Hypersensitivity reactions

• Superinfection with non-susceptible bacteria or fungi

Precautions:

• Use with caution in patients with severe liver impairment

• May cause bacterial resistance with overuse

• Not effective against infections outside the GI tract

Storage:

• Store at room temperature (20C to 25C or 68F to 77F)

• Keep away from moisture and direct sunlight