Rifastop 400 Tab

RIFASTOP 400 TAB is an antibiotic medication manufactured by MANKIND PHARMA LTD. (PANACEA).

Name

• Brand Name: RIFASTOP 400 TAB
• Common Name: Rifaximin

Composition

• Active Ingredient: Rifaximin (400 mg)

Uses

RIFASTOP 400 Tablet is a gastrointestinal-selective antibiotic used to treat various conditions by targeting harmful bacteria in the intestines.

• Infectious Traveler's Diarrhea: Specifically for diarrhea caused by non-invasive strains of Escherichia coli (E. coli) in adults.
• Hepatic Encephalopathy (HE): Used to prevent the recurrence of overt hepatic encephalopathy, a condition where the liver's inability to remove toxins from the blood leads to brain dysfunction. It works by reducing ammonia-producing bacteria in the digestive tract.
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome with Diarrhea (IBS-D): Helps manage symptoms like abdominal cramps and irregular bowel movements associated with IBS-D.

Dosage and Administration

RIFASTOP 400 Tablet should be taken orally, with or without food, as directed by a healthcare professional.

• Typical Guidance: Often advised to be taken three times daily, but dosage and duration should strictly follow the doctor's recommendation.
• Administration: Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water. Do not crush, chew, or break the tablet.
• Duration: It is crucial to complete the entire course of treatment, even if symptoms improve, to prevent the infection from returning. For traveler's diarrhea, it should not be used for more than 3 days unless prescribed by a doctor.

Side Effects

Most side effects are usually temporary and resolve as the body adjusts to the medicine.

• Common Side Effects: Headache, leg swelling (peripheral edema), nausea, dizziness, fatigue, ascites (excess fluid buildup in the abdomen), increased liver enzymes (ALT), vomiting, rashes, and joint pain.
• Other reported side effects: Abdominal pain, depression, and reddish discoloration of urine (which is normal and harmless).
• When to consult a doctor: If side effects persist, worsen, or cause concern, medical advice should be sought. Severe diarrhea during or after treatment should be immediately reported to a doctor.

Precautions

• Allergies: Do not take if allergic to Rifaximin or similar antibiotics like rifamycin, rifampicin, or rifabutin.
• Diarrhea Conditions: Not recommended for diarrhea accompanied by fever or blood in the stool, or diarrhea caused by pathogens other than E. coli. Discontinue use if diarrhea worsens.
• Liver/Kidney Impairment: Use with caution in patients with severe liver disease or kidney issues.
• Pregnancy: Generally not recommended during pregnancy due to limited safety data and potential harm to the unborn baby; consult a doctor.
• Breastfeeding: Consult a doctor, as it is unknown if rifaximin passes into human milk. Some sources advise caution or against its use.
• Children: Efficacy and safety have not been established in pediatric populations, so it is not recommended for children.
• Alcohol: Interaction with alcohol is unknown, though some sources advise against consumption.
• Driving and Machinery: May cause dizziness or fatigue, so caution is advised when driving or operating machinery.
• Drug Interactions: Inform your doctor about all other medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements, to avoid potential interactions.

Storage

• Store in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight.
• Maintain temperature between 10ºC to 25ºC or below 30ºC.
• Protect from light and moisture.
• Keep out of sight and reach of children.

RIFASTOP 400 TAB contains Rifaximin (400 mg) and is an antibiotic primarily used to treat gastrointestinal conditions.

What is RIFASTOP 400 TAB used for?

RIFASTOP 400 TAB is used to treat traveler's diarrhea caused by non-invasive strains of E. coli bacteria. It is also prescribed to lower the risk of recurrence of overt hepatic encephalopathy, a brain condition that can occur due to severe liver disease. Additionally, it helps manage symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea (IBS-D).

How does RIFASTOP 400 TAB work?

RIFASTOP 400 TAB contains Rifaximin, an antibiotic that primarily acts in the gut. It works by killing or stopping the growth of harmful bacteria in the intestines. Specifically, it inhibits bacterial RNA synthesis, which prevents bacteria from producing essential proteins required for their growth and multiplication. For hepatic encephalopathy, Rifaximin reduces the breakdown of ammonia by intestinal bacteria, thereby lowering ammonia levels in the blood and preventing associated neurological symptoms. This medication has low systemic absorption, meaning it largely stays within the gastrointestinal tract.

What is the usual dosage for RIFASTOP 400 TAB?

The dosage of RIFASTOP 400 TAB should be followed as advised by your doctor, as it can vary based on your medical condition and how you respond to the treatment. It is important to take the tablet whole with water, and it can be taken with or without food. For optimal results, try to take it at the same time each day. Do not exceed the prescribed dosage or stop taking the medication early, even if your symptoms improve, as this can lead to the infection returning or becoming harder to treat.

What are the possible side effects of RIFASTOP 400 TAB?

Common side effects of RIFASTOP 400 TAB can include headache, nausea, dizziness, fatigue, peripheral oedema (swelling in lower limbs), ascites (fluid buildup in the abdominal cavity), and increased liver enzyme levels (ALT). Some individuals may also experience vomiting, joint pain, rash, or muscle pain. A harmless side effect to note is that the medication may cause your urine to appear reddish. If any side effects persist, worsen, or cause concern, you should consult your doctor.

Is RIFASTOP 400 TAB safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

During pregnancy: RIFASTOP 400 TAB may cause harm to an unborn baby. It is generally not recommended during pregnancy and should only be used if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus, as determined by your doctor. During breastfeeding: Mothers who are breastfeeding should consult their doctor before taking RIFASTOP 400 TAB. While some sources suggest it is probably safe if prescribed, others note that it is unknown if Rifaximin passes into human milk, so it's best to discuss this with your doctor for personalized advice.

Can RIFASTOP 400 TAB be taken with other medications?

RIFASTOP 400 TAB can interact with other medications, potentially altering their effects. It is crucial to inform your doctor about all medications, supplements, and vitamins you are currently taking. Specific interactions include:

• Anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin): RIFASTOP 400 TAB may alter their effects, requiring monitoring of INR and prothrombin time, and possible dose adjustments.
• Certain antibiotics (e.g., Erythromycin, Azithromycin), Cyclosporine, Diltiazem, and anti-fungal medications: These may interact with Rifaximin.
• Oral contraceptives: RIFASTOP 400 TAB may decrease the effectiveness of oral contraceptives.
• Antacids, Iron supplements, Dairy products: To avoid decreased absorption of Rifaximin, these should be taken at least two hours before or after RIFASTOP 400 TAB.

What precautions should be taken while using RIFASTOP 400 TAB?

• Allergies: Do not take RIFASTOP 400 TAB if you are allergic to rifaximin or any of its components.
• Liver and Kidney Conditions: Exercise caution if you have severe liver impairment or a history of kidney issues, and consult your doctor.
• Alcohol: It is generally advised not to consume alcohol while taking this medication to avoid adverse effects, or at least consult your doctor.
• Driving and Machinery: If you experience dizziness or fatigue, use caution when driving or operating heavy machinery.
• Diarrhea with Fever or Blood: RIFASTOP 400 TAB should not be used for diarrhea complicated by fever or blood in the stool, or diarrhea caused by pathogens other than E. coli.
• Children: The safety and effectiveness of RIFASTOP 400 TAB have not been established in children under 12 years of age.
• Grapefruit: Avoid grapefruit juice or the fruit itself.

What happens if a dose is missed?

If you forget to take a dose of RIFASTOP 400 TAB, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed one and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one unless specifically instructed by your doctor.

How should RIFASTOP 400 TAB be stored?

Store RIFASTOP 400 TAB at room temperature, ideally between 20°C and 25°C, and generally below 30°C. Keep the medicine away from direct light and moisture. Ensure it is stored out of the reach of children and pets.