Description
About Rifagut 550 mg
Rifagut 550 mg tablets from Sun Pharma contain rifaximin, an antibiotic that acts almost entirely inside the gut. Less than 1% is absorbed into the bloodstream, so it works on bacteria in the intestine with relatively few body-wide effects. The 550 mg strength is used for two specific, long-term conditions.
1. Hepatic encephalopathy
When the liver is badly damaged, for example by cirrhosis, toxins such as ammonia produced by gut bacteria are not cleared properly and can reach the brain. This causes confusion, drowsiness and personality changes, a condition called hepatic encephalopathy (HE). Rifaximin reduces the bacteria that produce these toxins and lowers the risk of repeat episodes. It is usually taken as 550 mg twice daily, often together with lactulose.
2. IBS with diarrhea (IBS-D)
In irritable bowel syndrome where diarrhea is the main problem, rifaximin can ease bloating, urgency and loose stools. The usual course is 550 mg three times daily for 14 days. If symptoms return, a doctor may repeat the course up to two more times.
How to take it
Swallow the tablets whole with water, with or without food. Keep to the schedule your doctor sets. For HE, keep taking it long term unless told otherwise, as stopping can allow symptoms to return.
Pack sizes
Supplied in strips of 10 and sold as 60, 120 or 180 tablets, from $105. Lower strengths include Rifagut 400 mg and Rifagut 200 mg, which are used for traveler’s diarrhea.
Side effects
Nausea, bloating, dizziness, tiredness and swelling in the ankles or feet (particularly in people with liver disease) are reported. Contact a doctor if you develop severe or persistent diarrhea, a fever, blood in the stool or a skin rash.
Cautions
- Use with care in severe liver impairment, where more of the drug may be absorbed.
- Tell your doctor if you take ciclosporin or warfarin, as monitoring may be needed.
- Not suitable for diarrhea with fever or bloody stools caused by invasive infections.
- Discuss use in pregnancy or breastfeeding with your doctor.
Living with hepatic encephalopathy
Rifaximin works best as part of a wider plan. If you also take lactulose, aim for two or three soft bowel movements a day. Avoid alcohol completely, and make sure family members know what early confusion looks like so they can get help quickly. Keep all liver clinic appointments.
Frequently asked questions
Will it help constipation-type IBS?
No, it is used only for IBS where diarrhea predominates.
Where can I see other antibiotics?
Visit our antibiotic category.
General information only. Rifagut 550 mg is a prescription medicine for liver and bowel conditions that need medical supervision.
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