Zerifax Tablets (550 mg) – Rifaximin

Composition:

• Active Ingredient: Rifaximin 550 mg per tablet

Indications:

• Primarily used for the treatment of:
  • Travelers’ diarrhea caused by non-invasive strains of E. coli
  • Irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea (IBS-D)
  • Hepatic encephalopathy (as adjunctive therapy)

Mechanism of Action:

• Rifaximin is a broad-spectrum antibiotic that works by inhibiting bacterial RNA synthesis. It is minimally absorbed into the bloodstream, allowing it to act primarily in the gastrointestinal tract, effectively targeting gastrointestinal pathogens.

Dosage:

• For travelers’ diarrhea, the usual dosage is 550 mg taken three times a day for 3 days.
• For IBS-D, the typical dosage is 550 mg taken three times daily for 14 days.
• For hepatic encephalopathy, it may be taken as 550 mg twice daily.

Side Effects:

• Common Side Effects: Nausea, headache, abdominal pain, flatulence, and diarrhea.
• Serious Side Effects: Risk of Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea and severe allergic reactions.

Contraindications:

• Not recommended for individuals with:
  • Known hypersensitivity to rifaximin or any of its components.
  • Severe liver impairment (due to limited data).

Storage:

• Store at room temperature, away from moisture and direct sunlight.

Precautions:

• Monitor for signs of gastrointestinal infections, especially if diarrhea persists.
• Evaluate renal function in patients with pre-existing renal conditions before starting treatment.

Patient Counseling:

• Advise patients to complete the full course of antibiotics as prescribed, even if symptoms improve.
• Encourage maintaining hydration during treatment, especially in cases of diarrhea.
• Discuss potential side effects and instruct patients to report any severe reactions to their healthcare provider.

For personalized advice and specific recommendations, always consult with a healthcare professional or refer to the product packaging.