Rifaxin
Generic Name
Rifaximin
Manufacturer
ACI Pharmaceuticals
Country
Bangladesh
Loading images...
Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| rifaxin 200 mg tablet | ৳ 20.00 | ৳ 160.00 |
| rifaxin 550 mg tablet | ৳ 45.00 | ৳ 360.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Rifaximin is a non-systemic oral antibiotic that acts locally in the gastrointestinal tract. It is used to treat traveler's diarrhea, irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea (IBS-D), and to reduce the risk of overt hepatic encephalopathy (HE) recurrence.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
For Traveler's Diarrhea: 200 mg orally three times daily for 3 days. For IBS-D: 550 mg orally three times daily for 14 days. For Hepatic Encephalopathy: 550 mg orally twice daily.
Elderly
No specific dosage adjustment is generally required, but caution is advised in elderly patients with severe hepatic impairment.
Renal_impairment
No dosage adjustment is needed in patients with renal impairment due to minimal systemic absorption.
How to Take
Administer orally, with or without food.
Mechanism of Action
Rifaximin acts by binding to the beta-subunit of bacterial DNA-dependent RNA polymerase, thereby inhibiting bacterial RNA synthesis and protein synthesis. Its poor systemic absorption ensures high concentrations in the GI tract.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Onset of action for traveler's diarrhea is typically within 1-2 days.
Excretion
Over 96% of the administered dose is excreted unchanged in the feces, with less than 0.002% excreted in urine.
Half life
Plasma half-life is approximately 2-3 hours for the small fraction absorbed.
Absorption
Less than 0.4% is absorbed systemically after oral administration.
Metabolism
Minimally metabolized; primarily in the liver by CYP3A4 for the absorbed fraction.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to rifaximin or any rifamycin antibacterial
- Known or suspected intestinal obstruction
Drug Interactions
Warfarin
Although rifaximin has minimal systemic absorption, its effect on intestinal flora might theoretically alter vitamin K production, potentially affecting anticoagulant therapy. Monitor INR.
Cyclosporine
Concomitant administration with Cyclosporine (a P-glycoprotein inhibitor) significantly increases systemic exposure to rifaximin. Caution is advised, and monitoring for systemic effects may be considered.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture.
Overdose
In cases of overdose, symptomatic and supportive treatment is recommended. Due to minimal systemic absorption, overdose is unlikely to cause severe systemic toxicity.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Use during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. It is not known whether rifaximin is excreted in human milk; caution should be exercised when administered to a nursing woman.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to rifaximin or any rifamycin antibacterial
- Known or suspected intestinal obstruction
Drug Interactions
Warfarin
Although rifaximin has minimal systemic absorption, its effect on intestinal flora might theoretically alter vitamin K production, potentially affecting anticoagulant therapy. Monitor INR.
Cyclosporine
Concomitant administration with Cyclosporine (a P-glycoprotein inhibitor) significantly increases systemic exposure to rifaximin. Caution is advised, and monitoring for systemic effects may be considered.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture.
Overdose
In cases of overdose, symptomatic and supportive treatment is recommended. Due to minimal systemic absorption, overdose is unlikely to cause severe systemic toxicity.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Use during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. It is not known whether rifaximin is excreted in human milk; caution should be exercised when administered to a nursing woman.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
24-36 months from manufacturing date
Availability
Available in pharmacies and hospitals
Approval Status
FDA approved
Patent Status
Under patent protection (may vary by region/formulation)
Clinical Trials
Extensive clinical trials have demonstrated the efficacy and safety of rifaximin for traveler's diarrhea, IBS-D, and hepatic encephalopathy, including placebo-controlled studies and long-term recurrence prevention trials.
Lab Monitoring
- No routine laboratory monitoring is typically required due to minimal systemic absorption. For hepatic encephalopathy, periodic monitoring of liver function tests and ammonia levels may be done as part of HE management.
Doctor Notes
- Rifaximin is a non-systemic antibiotic; therefore, it does not treat systemic bacterial infections.
- Re-evaluate diagnosis if symptoms do not improve or worsen, especially considering C. difficile infection if diarrhea persists post-treatment.
Patient Guidelines
- Complete the full course of treatment as prescribed by your doctor, even if your symptoms improve.
- Do not stop taking this medicine without consulting your doctor.
- Inform your doctor if your symptoms worsen or do not improve.
Missed Dose Advice
If a dose is missed, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose.
Driving Precautions
Rifaximin is generally not expected to impair the ability to drive or operate machinery. However, if you experience dizziness, avoid such activities.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain adequate hydration, especially when treating diarrhea.
- Avoid alcohol, especially with hepatic encephalopathy.
Alternative Medicines in Bangladesh
Similar medicines available in the market
Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.
Other Medicines in Rifaxin Brand
Other medicines available under the same brand name
