Rifexa
Generic Name
Rifaximin
Manufacturer
Acme Pharmaceuticals
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| rifexa 200 mg tablet | ৳ 22.00 | ৳ 220.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Rifaximin is a non-systemic antibiotic used to treat specific gastrointestinal conditions such as traveler's diarrhea, hepatic encephalopathy, and irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
For Traveler's Diarrhea: 200 mg orally three times daily for 3 days. For Hepatic Encephalopathy: 550 mg orally two times daily. For IBS-D: 550 mg orally three times daily for 14 days, may be repeated.
Elderly
No specific dose adjustment is generally needed.
Renal_impairment
No dose adjustment is needed due to minimal systemic absorption.
How to Take
Take orally with or without food. Complete the full course of treatment as prescribed.
Mechanism of Action
Rifaximin inhibits bacterial RNA synthesis by binding to the beta-subunit of bacterial DNA-dependent RNA polymerase. Its action is localized in the gut due to minimal systemic absorption.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Within hours for acute conditions like Traveler's Diarrhea.
Excretion
Primarily excreted unchanged (>96%) in the feces.
Half life
Approximately 5-6 hours for the minimal systemically absorbed portion.
Absorption
Very low systemic absorption (<0.4%) after oral administration.
Metabolism
Minimal hepatic metabolism, primarily by CYP3A4, but most is excreted unchanged.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to rifaximin, any rifamycin antimicrobial agent, or any component of the formulation.
- Not for use in patients with diarrhea complicated by fever and/or bloody stools.
Drug Interactions
Warfarin
Potential for altered INR with warfarin; monitor INR closely.
Cyclosporine
Co-administration with P-glycoprotein inhibitors (like cyclosporine) may significantly increase systemic exposure to rifaximin.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place, below 30°C. Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
In case of overdose, discontinue the drug and institute symptomatic and supportive treatment. Due to minimal systemic absorption, overdose is unlikely to cause systemic toxicity.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Use only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Excretion into human milk is unknown; caution should be exercised when administered to a nursing woman.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to rifaximin, any rifamycin antimicrobial agent, or any component of the formulation.
- Not for use in patients with diarrhea complicated by fever and/or bloody stools.
Drug Interactions
Warfarin
Potential for altered INR with warfarin; monitor INR closely.
Cyclosporine
Co-administration with P-glycoprotein inhibitors (like cyclosporine) may significantly increase systemic exposure to rifaximin.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place, below 30°C. Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
In case of overdose, discontinue the drug and institute symptomatic and supportive treatment. Due to minimal systemic absorption, overdose is unlikely to cause systemic toxicity.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Use only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Excretion into human milk is unknown; caution should be exercised when administered to a nursing woman.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 24 to 36 months from manufacturing date.
Availability
Available in pharmacies
Approval Status
FDA approved
Patent Status
Patent expired/expiring, generics available
Clinical Trials
Extensive clinical trials have demonstrated the efficacy and safety of rifaximin for its approved indications, including studies on gut microbiome modulation and inflammation.
Lab Monitoring
- Routine lab monitoring is generally not required due to minimal systemic absorption. For patients on warfarin, INR monitoring is recommended.
Doctor Notes
- Rifaximin's non-systemic action makes it a targeted antibiotic for gut conditions, minimizing systemic side effects.
- Counsel patients on completing the full course and recognizing symptoms that warrant immediate medical attention (e.g., bloody stools).
- Consider potential for drug interactions, especially with P-glycoprotein inhibitors.
Patient Guidelines
- Complete the entire course of treatment, even if you feel better.
- Do not use for diarrhea with fever or bloody stools; consult your doctor immediately.
- Inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking.
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 your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Driving Precautions
Rifaximin may cause dizziness in some patients, which could affect the ability to drive or operate machinery. Exercise caution until you know how you react to the medication.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain adequate hydration, especially during diarrhea episodes.
- Avoid self-medication for persistent or severe gastrointestinal issues.
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.
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