Rifagut 550mg (Rifaximin)

INTRODUCTION

RIFAGUT 550MG contains Rifaximin which belongs to the group of medicines called antibiotics. It is used to treat and prevent the recurrence of hepatic encephalopathy in adults. Hepatic encephalopathy can be defined as a decline in brain function that occurs as a result of severe liver disease like liver cirrhosis or hepatitis. It is a spectrum of neuropsychiatric abnormalities characterized by agitation, confusion, muscle problems, difficulty in speaking and in some cases coma.

RIFAGUT 550MG can also be used in the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea in adults. Rifaximin kills the toxic bacteria in the GI tract and which relieve the symptoms of hepatic encephalopathy and irritable bowel syndrome. This medicine can either be used alone or can be combined with medicines containing a laxative called lactulose. Taking this medicine, may cause a reddish discolouration of urine. If this symptom bothers you, contact your doctor.

The most common side effect of taking this medicine are severe diarrhea, depression and headache. If you experience severe diarrhea during or after using this medicine, contact your doctor immediately. This medicine should be used with extreme caution in patients with severe liver disease. Regular monitoring of liver function is required. Before taking this medicine, inform your doctor if you have any blockage in your intestine or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. RIFAGUT 550MG is not recommended for use in children (aged less than 18 years). Consult your doctor before taking.

USES OF RIFAGUT 550MG

• Treats and prevents hepatic encephalopathy in adults
• Treats irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea in adults

HOW RIFAGUT 550MG WORKS

Rifaximin works by inhibiting the growth of ammonia-producing bacteria in the digestive tract which are important to the pathogenesis of hepatic encephalopathy. This helps to relieve the symptoms of hepatic encephalopathy such as agitation, confusion, muscle problems and reduces its recurrence. Inhibition of toxic micro organisms in the gut wall also relieves the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome like abdominal cramping, bloating, and diarrhea or constipation.

DIRECTIONS FOR USE

Take this medicine as directed by your physician. It can be taken with or without food. Swallow the medicine with a glass of water. Do not crush or chew the medicine. Your doctor will decide the correct dose and duration for you depending upon your condition. Continue to take this medicine, as long as your doctor tells you to do so, to obtain better results.

SIDE EFFECTS OF RIFAGUT 550MG

HOW TO MANAGE SIDE EFFECTS

Nausea or vomiting:

Try taking this medicine with, or just after meal. Stick to simple meals. Do not eat rich or spicy food.

Bloating or wind:

Eat smaller and frequent meals. Eat and drink slowly, and exercise regularly. If the symptoms get worse, contact your doctor immediately.

Diarrhea:

Drink lots of fluids, such as water or juice, to avoid dehydration. Do not take any medicines without speaking to a doctor.

Stomach pain:

Try to rest and relax. You can eat and drink slowly or have smaller and frequent meals. Keeping a heat pad on your stomach may also help. If still pain persists, speak to your doctor.

Headache:

Apply hot or cold-water bag on your head. Take rest in a quiet and dark room. Drink tea or coffee.

WARNING & PRECAUTIONS

INTERACTIONS

Talk to your doctor, if you are taking,

• Antibiotics (medicines used to treat infections) e.g. clarithromycin
• Warfarin (used to prevent blood clotting)
• Medicines used to treat epilepsy (e.g. phenytoin)
• Medicines to treat abnormal heartbeat (e.g. digoxin, amiodarone)
• Ciclosporin (used to suppress immune system)
• Oral contraceptives (medicines used to prevent pregnancy)