Rifaximin tablets

What is this medicine?

RIFAXIMIN (ri FAX i men) is an antibiotic. It is used to treat traveler's diarrhea and irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea. It is also used to prevent hepatic encephalopathy, a brain disorder that can occur due to severe liver disease.

How should I use this medicine?

Take this medicine by mouth with a glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. This medicine may be taken with or without food. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Take all of your medicine as directed even if you think your are better. Do not skip doses or stop your medicine early.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

• allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

• blood in the urine

• bloody or watery diarrhea

• fever

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

• constipation

• headache

• nausea, vomiting

• stomach bloating, gas

• urgent bowel movements

What may interact with this medicine?

This medicine may interact with the following medications:

• birth control pills

• cyclosporine

• midazolam

• verapamil

• warfarin

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• bloody or tarry stools

• fever

• liver disease

• an unusual or allergic reaction to rifaximin, rifampin, rifabutin, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

• pregnant or trying to get pregnant

• breast-feeding

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Tell your doctor or healthcare professional if your symptoms do not start to get better or if they get worse.

Do not treat diarrhea with over the counter products. Contact your doctor if you have diarrhea that lasts more than 2 days or if it is severe and watery.