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Rifamycin

Pronounced

"RIF-a-MYE-sin"

Uses

Rifamycin is used to treat diarrhea caused by the common bacteria known as E. coli ("traveler's diarrhea"). It works by stopping the growth of bacteria.

This antibiotic treats only bacterial infections. It will not work for viral infections (such as common cold, flu). Using any antibiotic when it is not needed can cause it to not work for future infections.

This medication should not be used if you have a fever or bloody diarrhea.

How to Use This Medication

Take this medication by mouth with or without food as directed by your doctor, usually twice a day (morning and evening) for 3 days. Swallow the tablets whole with a glass of liquid (6 to 8 ounces/180 to 240 milliliters). Do not take this medication with alcohol. Do not crush, break, or chew the tablets. Doing so can release all of the drug at once, increasing the risk of side effects. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment.

For the best effect, take this antibiotic at evenly spaced times. To help you remember, take this medication at the same times every day.

Continue to take this medication until the full prescribed amount is finished, even if symptoms disappear after a few days. Stopping the medication too early may result in a return of the infection.

Tell your doctor if you develop a fever or bloody diarrhea, or if your condition does not get better, or if it gets worse after 2 days.