Rifamycin

Rifamycin is used in adults to treat traveler's diarrhea caused by Escherichia coli (E. coli).

Rifamycin is not for use in treating diarrhea with Fever or blood in the stools, or diarrhea that is not caused by E. coli.

Rifamycin may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Use the medicine exactly as directed.

Rifamycin is usually taken twice daily for 3 days in a row. Follow your doctor's dosing instructions very carefully.

Take rifamycin with a full glass of water.

You may take rifamycin with or without food. Do not take with alcohol.

Swallow the tablet whole and do not crush, chew, or break it.

Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after 48 hours, or if your diarrhea gets worse.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

Follow all instructions on your medicine label and package.

• Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.

You should not use rifamycin if you are allergic to it, or if you have:

• a fever; or
• blood in your stools.

Rifamycin is not approved for use by anyone younger than 18 years old.

Tell your doctor if you have ever had:

• an allergic reaction to an antibiotic or other medicine to treat or prevent infection.

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breast-feeding.

Get emergency medical help if you notice signs of an allergic reaction: hives; trouble breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Rifamycin may cause serious side effects. Call your doctor right away if you experience:

• severe stomach pain; or
• diarrhea that is watery or bloody.

Common side effects of rifamycin may include:

• constipation; or
• headache.

This is not a complete list of side effects, and others may happen. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You can report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Usual Adult Dose for Traveler's Diarrhea:

388 mg orally 2 times a day-Duration of therapy: 3 daysComments:-Doses should be taken in the morning and evening, and each dose should be taken with 6 to 8 ounces of liquid.-Alcohol should not be taken concomitantly.Use: Treatment of travelers' diarrhea caused by noninvasive strains of Escherichia coli

Take the medicine as soon as you can, but if it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not take two doses at once.

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

Do not drink alcohol while taking rifamycin.

Other drugs may affect rifamycin, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Inform your doctor about all your current medicines and any medicine you begin or stop using.