Metronidazole + Rifaximin
Introduction To Metronidazole + Rifaximin
Metronidazole + Rifaximin is a combination medicine that is used to treat infectious diarrhea. It prevents the growth of microorganisms to treat the infection.
Metronidazole + Rifaximin is a prescription medicine that is advised to be taken as suggested by the doctor. It should be taken with or without food and it must be taken at a fixed time to ensure better efficacy. Do not consume more than the recommended dose, as an overdose of it may have harmful effects on your body. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. The treatment must be completed even if you feel better to ensure a complete recovery.
Metronidazole + Rifaximin may lead to some side effects such as nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, loss of appetite, headache, etc. To overcome any such side effects, it is advised to eat a healthy balanced diet and drink plenty of fluid. If any of the side effects get aggravated, contact your doctor immediately. If you experience any allergic reaction (rashes, itching, swelling, shortness of breath, etc.), you must consult your doctor immediately.
Before taking this medicine, you should tell your doctor if you have any problems with your liver or kidneys. Also, tell your doctor if you are on any medication for any health condition. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should also consult with the doctors before taking it. Avoid drinking alcohol as it can cause excessive dizziness with this medicine. It usually does not impair your ability to drive, but you should not drive if it makes you feel sleepy or dizzy. If you are a known allergic to the medicine, you must refrain from using this medicine and consult your doctor. It is advised to take proper rest during the course of treatment for the medicine to work effectively.
Uses of Metronidazole + Rifaximin
- Treatment of Infectious diarrhea
Benefits of Metronidazole + Rifaximin
Treatment of Infectious diarrhea
Diarrhea is a condition in which you frequently pass loose, watery stools.
Metronidazole + Rifaximin reduces the frequency of loose motions and also helps you to stay
well by preventing them from coming back. It works by killing the
microorganisms causing infections as well as prevents them from multiplying.
Since diarrhea causes loss of fluid from the body, drink plenty of fluids to
make sure you stay hydrated.
Side effects of Metronidazole + Rifaximin
Most side effects do not require any medical attention and disappear as your body adjusts to the medicine. Consult your doctor if they persist or if you’re worried about them
Common side effects of Rifaxigyl-M
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Stomach pain
- Constipation
- Dryness in mouth
- Flatulence
- Fever
- Headache
- Metallic taste
- Dizziness
- Abdominal distension
- Tenesmus (increased urge to pass stools)
- Bowel incontinence
How to use Metronidazole + Rifaximin
Take this medicine in the dose and duration as advised by your doctor. Swallow it as a whole. Do not chew, crush or break it. Metronidazole + Rifaximin may be taken with or without food, but it is better to take it at a fixed time.
How Metronidazole + Rifaximin works
Metronidazole + Rifaximin is a combination of two antibiotics: Rifaximin and Metronidazole which treat infectious diarrhoea. These antibiotics work in the digestive tract by killing the bacteria and other microorganisms that cause diarrhoea. This treats your infection and relieves symptoms.
Quick tips
- You have been prescribed Metronidazole + Rifaximin for the treatment of infectious diarrhea.
- Do not skip any doses and finish the full course of treatment even if you feel better. Stopping it early may make the infection come back and harder to treat.
- It is advisable to drink plenty of fluids and a healthy diet while taking the medicine.
- It may cause dizziness. Do not drive or do anything that requires mental focus until you know how the medicine affects you.
- Avoid consuming alcohol while taking medication as it may cause increased side effects.
- Discontinue Metronidazole + Rifaximin and inform your doctor immediately if you get a rash, itchy skin, swelling of face and mouth, or have difficulty in breathing.
Safety Advice
PregnancyCONSULT YOUR DOCTOR
Can I take Metronidazole + Rifaximin if I’m pregnant?
Metronidazole + Rifaximin may be unsafe to use during pregnancy. Although there are limited studies in humans, animal studies have shown harmful effects on the developing baby. Your doctor will weigh the benefits and any potential risks before prescribing it to you. Please consult your doctor.
BreastfeedingSAFE IF PRESCRIBED
Can I take Metronidazole + Rifaximin if I’m breastfeeding?
Metronidazole + Rifaximin is probably safe to use during breastfeeding. Limited human data suggests that the drug does not represent any significant risk to the baby.
AlcoholUNSAFE
Is drinking alcohol while taking Metronidazole + Rifaximin safe?
Consuming alcohol while taking Metronidazole + Rifaximin may cause symptoms such as flushing, increased heart beat, nausea, thirst, chest pain and low blood pressure (Disulfiram reaction).
DrivingUNSAFE
Can I drive after taking Metronidazole + Rifaximin?
Metronidazole + Rifaximin may cause side effects which could affect your ability to drive. Metronidazole + Rifaximin may make you feel sleepy, dizzy, confused. You may have hallucinations, fits (convulsions) or temporary eyesight problems (such as blurred or double vision) affecting your ability to drive.
KidneySAFE IF PRESCRIBED
Can I take Metronidazole + Rifaximin if I have/had kidney diseases?
Metronidazole + Rifaximin is probably safe to use in patients with kidney disease. Limited data available suggests that dose adjustment of Metronidazole + Rifaximin may not be needed in these patients. Please consult your doctor.
LiverCAUTION
Can I take Metronidazole + Rifaximin if I have/had liver diseases?
Metronidazole + Rifaximin should be used with caution in patients with liver disease. Dose adjustment of Metronidazole + Rifaximin may be needed. Please consult your doctor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Can the use of Metronidazole + Rifaximin cause metallic taste?
Yes, the use of Metronidazole + Rifaximin can cause a temporary metallic taste. This metallic taste can be reduced by chewing sugar-free gum or mints and brushing teeth after your meals.
Q. Can the use of Metronidazole + Rifaximin cause dryness in the mouth?
Yes, the use of Metronidazole + Rifaximin can cause dry mouth. If you experience dry mouth, drink plenty of water, Take regular sips during the day and keep some water by your bed at night. You may use lip balm if your lips are also dry.
Q. Can I take a higher dose of this medicine than recommended?
No, taking higher than the recommended dose of Metronidazole + Rifaximin can lead to increased side effects. If you are experiencing increased severity of your symptoms, please consult your doctor for re-evaluation.
Q. What are the contraindications of Metronidazole + Rifaximin?
The use of Metronidazole + Rifaximin should be avoided in patients with known allergy to any of the component or excipients of this medicine and tell your doctor if you have or had liver disease.
Q. What should I know about storage and disposal of Metronidazole + Rifaximin?
Keep this medicine in the container or pack it came in, tightly closed. Store it as mentioned on the pack or label. Dispose of the unused medicine. Make sure it is not consumed by pets, children, and other people.
References
Written By:
Dr Advikka Ridhy
MBBS
RMO, Aster MIMS
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