Rifaximin - side effects, precautions and contraindications

Drug Class:	Commonly Known As:	Category:
	Hepatic encephalopathy

- Side Effects, Precautions, and Contraindications

What side effects can cause?

Common side effects include:

Gastrointestinal discomfort and/or nausea and vomiting.
Muscle ache or pain.
Headaches and dizziness.

Rare but serious side effetcs inlcude:

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 water or bloody stools.

Before taking , what precautions must I follow?

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 food or medicine must I avoid when I take ?

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 including the blood thinner warfarin, ciclosporin or oral contraception.