Rifguard tablet is an antibiotic containing the active substance rifaximin. It is used to treat traveler's diarrhea caused by noninvasive strains of Escherichia coli in adults and to prevent the recurrence of episodes of overt hepatic encephalopathy (symptomatic loss of brain function) in adults with liver disease. This medicine can be used alone or in combination with medicines containing lactulose.  

Do not take Rifguard tablets if you are allergic to Rifaximin or any of the other ingredients of this medicine. Do not take this medicine if you are allergic to similar types of antibiotics, such as rifamycin, rifampicin, or rifabutin. Do not take this medicine if your physician informs you that you have a blockage in your intestine. Do not take this medicine if you have a fever, blood in stools, or have passed over eight or more unformed stools in the last 24 hours. Inform your physician if you have liver problems before starting the treatment. 

This medicine is not recommended for children and adolescents aged less than 18 years of age. If you take more than the recommended number of tablets unknowingly, seek medical advice immediately.

Traveler’s diarrhea.

Hepatic encephalopathy.

Rifguard tablet acts by binding to the bacterial DNA-dependent RNA polymerase blocking one of the steps in the transcription process. This results in the inhibition of bacterial protein synthesis and consequently inhibits the growth of bacteria.

Always use this medicine as exactly prescribed by your doctor. Depending on the condition being treated, your physician decides the dose, dosage, and duration of the treatment. Take the tablet at the same time every day, with or without food. Swallow the tablets with a glass of water. Do not break, crush, or chew the tablets.

Anemia

Allergic reactions

Swelling of the legs and feet

Abdominal pain

Nausea

Abdominal swelling

Dizziness, headache

Tiredness

Inform your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription, over-the-counter, vaccines, nutritional or vitamin supplements, and herbal products. Certain medications like warfarin, and oral contraceptives may interact with Rifguard tablet and reduce their effectiveness by causing undesirable side effects.

Store at room temperature 20° to 25°C.

Protect the medicine from light and excessive moisture.

Keep the medicine out of reach of children and pets.

While taking Rifguard tablet your urine may occur as a reddish color. Treatment with this medicine can cause severe diarrhea. Inform your physician if you have diarrhea for several weeks. If you forgot to take the tablet, take it as soon as you remember. However, skip the missed dose if it is nearly time for the next dose. Inform your physician if your taking oral contraceptives (medicines to prevent pregnancy). Your doctor may suggest you to take certain tests to monitor the effectiveness and side effects of the therapy.