What is this medication for?

This medication is used to treat the symptoms of hepatic encephalopathy ( severe liver disease that causes toxins to build up in the blood, travel to the brain and affect brain function).

How should I take/use this medication?

• Do not stop taking your medication without checking with your healthcare professional.

• You may take this medication with or without food.

• This medication may cause a reddish discolouration of the urine.

What should I do if I forget to take/use this medication?

If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. Then take your next dose at the usual time. Do not take two doses to make up for the missed dose.

What precautions should I take?

Inform your healthcare professional if:

• You are allergic to this medication or any of the other ingredients of this medication.

• You are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.

• You are taking any other medications, including supplements, traditional medications and herbal remedies.

• You have a history of bowel obstruction.

What are some common side-effects of this medication?

• Gastrointestinal discomfort and/or nausea and vomiting.

• Muscle ache or pain.

• Headaches and dizziness.

What are some rare but serious side-effects that I need to seek medical advice immediately?

The symptoms of a drug allergy include one or more of the following:

• Swollen face/eyes/lips/tongue

• Difficulty in breathing

• Itchy skin rashes over your whole body

If you experience any of these symptoms, you should stop your medication and see your healthcare professional immediately.

In rare circumstances, this medication may cause a severe form of diarrhoea. Inform your healthcare professional if you develop stomach pain or cramps with very loose watery or bloody stools.

What food or medication should I avoid when I take this medication?

Rifaximin can generally be taken with most other foods or medications. However, please inform your healthcare professionals if you are taking other medications or herbal preparations. This includes Warfarin (blood thinner), Ciclosporin or oral contraceptives.

How should I store this medication?

Store in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight. Keep this medication away from children.

How should I throw away this medication safely?

Pack this medication into a black trash bag and seal it tightly before throwing it into the rubbish chute or bin.

Disclaimers

If you take more than the recommended dose, please seek medical advice immediately. The information provided on this page does not replace information from your healthcare professional. Please consult your healthcare professional for more information.

This article is jointly developed by members of the National Medication Information workgroup. The workgroup consists of cluster partners (National Healthcare Group, National University Health System and SingHealth), community pharmacies (Guardian, Unity and Watsons) and Pharmaceutical Society of Singapore. The content does not reflect drug availability and supply information in pharmacies and healthcare institutions. You are advised to check with the respective institutions for such information.

Last updated on Jun 2022