Indications
Rifamycin is an antibiotic. Taken by mouth in a special delayed-release tablet, it is used to treat travellers’ diarrhoea caused by non-invasive strains of E. coli bacteria in adults. It is not suitable for diarrhoea with fever or blood in the stool. Other forms of Rifamycin (such as Rifamycin SV) are used on the skin, in the ear or by injection for certain infections, as prescribed by a doctor.
How It Works
Rifamycin blocks an enzyme (RNA polymerase) that bacteria need to make their proteins, so the bacteria stop growing and die. The oral tablet is designed to release the medicine in the lower part of the gut, where the infection is, and very little is absorbed into the blood.
Dosage and Administration
Take exactly as prescribed. For travellers’ diarrhoea the course is usually taken twice daily for 3 days. Swallow the tablets whole with a glass of water, with or without food; do not crush, chew or break them. Complete the full course. Drink plenty of fluids to replace what is lost with diarrhoea. Injections and other forms are used as prescribed.
Interactions
Because very little of the oral tablet reaches the blood, interactions are unlikely, but tell your doctor about all medicines you take. Rifamycin may reduce the effect of some hormonal contraceptives if absorbed; ask your doctor. Avoid taking it at the same time as other medicines for diarrhoea unless advised.
Contraindications
Do not use if you are allergic to Rifamycin, Rifampicin, Rifaximin or any other rifamycin-type antibiotic, or to any ingredient. Do not use for diarrhoea with fever or bloody stools.
Side Effects
Side effects are usually mild and may include headache, constipation, stomach pain, nausea and wind. Urine, sweat or tears may turn reddish-orange with some forms.
Get urgent medical help if diarrhoea gets worse or lasts more than 48 hours, if you develop a high fever or blood in the stool, if you have severe watery diarrhoea during or after treatment (which may be a serious gut infection), or if you have signs of an allergic reaction such as rash, swelling or difficulty breathing.
Pregnancy and Lactation
There is limited information on use in pregnancy and breastfeeding. Use only if your doctor advises it.
Precautions and Warnings
Stop and see a doctor if symptoms do not improve within 48 hours. Antibiotics can upset the normal gut bacteria and occasionally cause a serious diarrhoea called Clostridioides difficile infection. Use only for bacterial infections: it does not work against viruses.
Overdose
Overdose is unlikely to cause serious harm because little is absorbed. If too much has been taken, contact a doctor.
Therapeutic Class
Rifamycin antibiotic (antidiarrhoeal anti-infective).
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.