Gifaxin 100 mg Syrup

Description

Gifaxin 100 mg Syrup is an antibiotic medicine containing Rifaximin, used to treat bacterial infections of the intestine. Unlike many antibiotics, Rifaximin acts mainly in the gut and is poorly absorbed into the bloodstream, which makes it especially useful for gastrointestinal infections.

It is commonly prescribed for children and adults who require a liquid formulation, particularly in cases of traveler’s diarrhea, irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea (IBS-D), and hepatic encephalopathy (liver-related brain complications).

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Uses / Indications

• Traveler’s diarrhea caused by non-invasive strains of E. coli

• Irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea (IBS-D)

• Hepatic encephalopathy (to reduce recurrence by lowering toxin-producing bacteria)

• Intestinal bacterial overgrowth

• Other bacterial gut infections as prescribed

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How It Works (Mechanism of Action)

• Rifaximin (100 mg/5 ml):

  • A rifamycin antibiotic that works by blocking bacterial RNA synthesis.

  • Prevents bacteria from multiplying and eliminates harmful gut bacteria.

  • Since it is minimally absorbed into the bloodstream, it acts directly in the intestine, reducing side effects and systemic exposure.

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Dosage & Administration

• Dose depends on age, weight, and condition being treated.

• Typically given two to three times daily for a set duration (as prescribed).

• Shake the bottle well before each use.

• Can be taken with or without food.

• Complete the full course, even if symptoms improve, to prevent antibiotic resistance.

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Side Effects

Common:

• Nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain

• Flatulence (gas), bloating

• Headache, dizziness

• Fever in children

• Constipation or loose stools

Rare but serious:

• Severe allergic reactions (rash, swelling, breathing difficulty)

• Bloody stools, severe diarrhea (may indicate Clostridium difficile infection)

• Liver function disturbances in long-term use

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Precautions & Warnings

• Not effective for invasive bacterial infections (like those causing high fever or bloody diarrhea).

• Use with caution in patients with liver disease.

• Not recommended for children under 2 years unless prescribed.

• May interact with certain medicines (e.g., warfarin, cyclosporine).

• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: use only if clearly advised by a doctor.

• Long-term use may lead to antibiotic resistance.

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Summary

Gifaxin 100 mg Syrup (Rifaximin 100 mg/5 ml) is a gut-targeted antibiotic used for traveler’s diarrhea, IBS-D, hepatic encephalopathy, and bacterial gut infections. It works locally in the intestine with minimal systemic absorption, making it safer than many antibiotics. While effective, it can cause nausea, bloating, dizziness, or rare allergic reactions, so it should be taken only under medical supervision.