Rafcon
Generic Name
Rifaximin
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| rafcon 500 mg suspension | ৳ 250.00 | N/A |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Rafcon 500 mg Suspension contains Rifaximin, a non-systemic antibiotic that works locally in the gastrointestinal tract to treat conditions like traveler's diarrhea, hepatic encephalopathy, and irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea (IBS-D).
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
For Traveler's Diarrhea: 200 mg (20 ml of 500 mg/5 ml suspension if diluted) orally three times daily for 3 days. For Hepatic Encephalopathy: 550 mg (55 ml of 500 mg/5 ml suspension if diluted) orally twice daily. For IBS-D: 550 mg (55 ml of 500 mg/5 ml suspension if diluted) orally three times daily for 14 days.
Elderly
No dosage adjustment is generally required based on age.
Renal_impairment
No dosage adjustment is necessary for patients with renal impairment due to minimal systemic absorption.
How to Take
Take orally with or without food. Shake the suspension well before each use. Use a calibrated measuring device for accurate dosing.
Mechanism of Action
Rifaximin binds to the beta-subunit of bacterial DNA-dependent RNA polymerase, thereby inhibiting bacterial RNA synthesis and protein production, leading to bacterial death. Due to its minimal systemic absorption, its action is primarily confined to the gut.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Clinical improvement varies by indication; for traveler's diarrhea, symptom relief can be seen within 24-48 hours.
Excretion
Over 96% of the orally administered dose is excreted unchanged in the feces. Less than 0.001% is excreted in urine.
Half life
Approximately 5-6 hours in plasma, but local gut levels remain high.
Absorption
Less than 0.4% systemically absorbed after oral administration, ensuring localized action.
Metabolism
Minimally metabolized; primarily by intestinal flora and to a small extent by hepatic CYP3A4.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to rifaximin, rifamycin antimicrobial agents, or any component of the formulation.
- Patients with diarrhea complicated by fever or bloody stool.
Drug Interactions
Warfarin
Rifaximin may reduce the effectiveness of warfarin; monitor INR and adjust warfarin dose as needed.
Cyclosporine
Coadministration with cyclosporine (a P-glycoprotein inhibitor) significantly increased systemic exposure to rifaximin, but clinical significance is uncertain due to minimal systemic absorption.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light. Keep out of reach of children. After reconstitution, store as directed on the label (e.g., at room temperature or refrigerated, and discard after a specific period).
Overdose
In case of overdose, management should be symptomatic and supportive. Due to minimal systemic absorption, systemic toxicity is unlikely.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Use during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. It is unknown if rifaximin is excreted in human milk; caution should be exercised when administered to a nursing mother.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to rifaximin, rifamycin antimicrobial agents, or any component of the formulation.
- Patients with diarrhea complicated by fever or bloody stool.
Drug Interactions
Warfarin
Rifaximin may reduce the effectiveness of warfarin; monitor INR and adjust warfarin dose as needed.
Cyclosporine
Coadministration with cyclosporine (a P-glycoprotein inhibitor) significantly increased systemic exposure to rifaximin, but clinical significance is uncertain due to minimal systemic absorption.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light. Keep out of reach of children. After reconstitution, store as directed on the label (e.g., at room temperature or refrigerated, and discard after a specific period).
Overdose
In case of overdose, management should be symptomatic and supportive. Due to minimal systemic absorption, systemic toxicity is unlikely.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Use during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. It is unknown if rifaximin is excreted in human milk; caution should be exercised when administered to a nursing mother.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 24 months for unopened product. Consult package insert for specific post-reconstitution shelf-life.
Availability
Pharmacies, Hospitals
Approval Status
Approved by relevant health authorities (e.g., DGDA, FDA)
Patent Status
Generic versions available
Clinical Trials
Extensive clinical trials have demonstrated Rifaximin's efficacy and safety in its approved indications, including studies on reducing recurrence of hepatic encephalopathy and improving symptoms of IBS-D.
Lab Monitoring
- Routine lab monitoring is not typically required. In patients with severe hepatic impairment, monitor INR if co-administered with warfarin.
- Monitor for signs of Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea if severe diarrhea develops.
Doctor Notes
- Emphasize Rifaximin's non-systemic action, minimizing systemic side effects.
- Counsel patients on completing the full course to prevent recurrence or resistance.
- Differentiate its use from systemic antibiotics for generalized infections.
Patient Guidelines
- Complete the full course of treatment as prescribed by your doctor, even if symptoms improve.
- Shake the suspension well before each use.
- Use the provided measuring cup or syringe for accurate dosing.
Missed Dose Advice
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double the dose.
Driving Precautions
Rifaximin is generally not expected to affect the ability to drive or operate machinery. However, if you experience dizziness, avoid such activities.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain adequate hydration, especially during episodes of diarrhea.
- Follow a diet suitable for your gastrointestinal condition as advised by your healthcare provider.
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