Rifexa
Generic Name
Rifaximin
Manufacturer
Beximco Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| rifexa 550 mg tablet | ৳ 45.00 | ৳ 450.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Rifaximin is a non-systemic antibiotic that works locally in the gut to treat certain bacterial infections. It is used for irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea (IBS-D), hepatic encephalopathy (HE), and travelers' diarrhea.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
For IBS-D: 550 mg orally three times daily for 14 days. For HE: 550 mg orally twice daily. For Travelers' Diarrhea: 200 mg orally three times daily for 3 days.
Elderly
No dosage adjustment is generally required based on age.
Renal_impairment
No dosage adjustment is necessary as rifaximin is minimally absorbed systemically.
How to Take
Rifexa tablets should be taken orally, with or without food.
Mechanism of Action
Rifaximin inhibits bacterial RNA synthesis by binding to the beta-subunit of bacterial DNA-dependent RNA polymerase. Its poor systemic absorption means it acts primarily in the gastrointestinal tract, reducing bacterial load and associated symptoms.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Clinical improvement typically seen within days, depending on the indication (e.g., 3 days for travelers' diarrhea, longer for IBS-D/HE).
Excretion
Over 96% of the orally administered dose is excreted unchanged in the feces. Less than 0.4% is recovered in urine.
Half life
The systemic elimination half-life is approximately 2-3 hours, but its action is local in the gut.
Absorption
Less than 0.4% is absorbed systemically after oral administration, leading to very low plasma concentrations. Peak plasma concentration occurs approximately 1 hour post-dose.
Metabolism
Minimal hepatic metabolism; some metabolites have been identified. Primarily acts locally with limited systemic exposure.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to rifaximin, rifamycin antimicrobial agents, or any component of the tablet.
- Diarrhea complicated by fever or blood in the stool.
Drug Interactions
Warfarin
Monitor INR closely if co-administered, as rifaximin may alter warfarin exposure.
P-glycoprotein Inhibitors (e.g., Cyclosporine)
Increased systemic exposure to rifaximin may occur, but clinical significance is generally limited due to low baseline absorption.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Due to minimal systemic absorption, overdose with rifaximin is unlikely to cause systemic toxicity. In case of suspected overdose, symptomatic treatment and supportive care should be initiated.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Use during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. It is unknown whether rifaximin is excreted in human milk; caution should be exercised when administered to a nursing woman.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to rifaximin, rifamycin antimicrobial agents, or any component of the tablet.
- Diarrhea complicated by fever or blood in the stool.
Drug Interactions
Warfarin
Monitor INR closely if co-administered, as rifaximin may alter warfarin exposure.
P-glycoprotein Inhibitors (e.g., Cyclosporine)
Increased systemic exposure to rifaximin may occur, but clinical significance is generally limited due to low baseline absorption.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Due to minimal systemic absorption, overdose with rifaximin is unlikely to cause systemic toxicity. In case of suspected overdose, symptomatic treatment and supportive care should be initiated.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Use during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. It is unknown 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
2 years from the date of manufacture.
Availability
Pharmacies, Hospitals
Approval Status
FDA Approved
Patent Status
Expired in many countries, formulation patents may exist
Clinical Trials
Rifaximin has undergone extensive clinical trials supporting its efficacy and safety for IBS-D, HE, and Travelers' Diarrhea. Ongoing research explores its utility in other gastrointestinal disorders.
Lab Monitoring
- For patients on warfarin, monitor INR closely.
- For patients with hepatic encephalopathy, monitor liver function tests as clinically indicated.
Doctor Notes
- Emphasize the importance of completing the full course of treatment.
- Rifaximin is a gut-specific antibiotic and should not be used for systemic infections.
- Monitor patients for signs of C. difficile infection if severe diarrhea develops during or after treatment.
Patient Guidelines
- Take Rifexa exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
- Complete the full course of treatment, even if you feel better.
- Inform your doctor if your diarrhea worsens or if you develop fever or bloody stools.
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 resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double doses.
Driving Precautions
Rifexa may cause dizziness in some patients. Patients should be advised to exercise caution when driving or operating machinery.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain good hydration, especially if experiencing diarrhea.
- Follow any dietary recommendations given by your doctor for IBS-D or HE.
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