Tablets

(Rifaximin 550 mg)

Description

Rifaximin is a non-absorbable rifamycin antibiotic acting locally in the gastrointestinal tract. It is highly effective in hepatic encephalopathy and traveler’s diarrhea with minimal systemic side effects.

Mechanism of Action (MOA)

• Inhibits bacterial RNA synthesis by binding DNA-dependent RNA polymerase
• Reduces ammonia-producing gut bacteria

Pharmacokinetics

• Absorption: <1% (minimal systemic absorption)
• Acts locally in intestine
• Excreted in feces

Uses

• Hepatic encephalopathy
• Traveler’s diarrhea (E. coli)
• IBS-D (Irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea)

Dosage

• Hepatic encephalopathy: 550 mg twice daily

Side Effects

• Flatulence
• Abdominal pain
• Nausea
• Rare hypersensitivity

Precautions

• Avoid in severe intestinal obstruction
• Use cautiously in severe liver disease

Drug Interactions

• Minimal (due to poor absorption)