fidaxomicin

Pronunciation: fye DAX oh MYE sin

Brand: Dificid

What is the most important information I should know about fidaxomicin?

You should not use fidaxomicin if you are allergic to it.

Take this medication for the full prescribed length of time. Your symptoms may improve before the infection is completely cleared. Skipping doses may also increase your risk of further infection that is resistant to antibiotics.

Fidaxomicin should not be used to treat infections that are not related to Clostridium difficile. This medication is for use only to treat diarrhea caused by infection with Clostridium difficile. Fidaxomicin will not treat a viral infection such as the common cold or flu.

Call your doctor at once if you have a serious side effect such as fever, chills, flu symptoms, mouth sores, pale skin, feeling light-headed or short of breath, rapid heart rate, trouble concentrating, bloody or tarry stools, or coughing up blood or vomit that looks like coffee grounds.

What is fidaxomicin?

Fidaxomicin is an antibiotic that fights bacteria.

Fidaxomicin is used to treat diarrhea caused by infection with Clostridium difficile.

Fidaxomicin may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking fidaxomicin?

You should not use fidaxomicin if you are allergic to it.

FDA pregnancy category B. Fidaxomicin is not expected to harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment.

It is not known whether fidaxomicin passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

Do not give this medication to anyone under 18 years old without medical advice.

How should I take fidaxomicin?

Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label.

Fidaxomicin is usually taken 2 times each day for 10 days. Follow your doctor's instructions.

You may take fidaxomicin with or without food.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

What should I avoid while taking fidaxomicin?

Follow your doctor's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.

What are the possible side effects of fidaxomicin?

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Call your doctor at once if you have a serious side effect such as:

fever, chills, body aches, flu symptoms, sores in your mouth and throat;
pale skin, feeling light-headed or short of breath, rapid heart rate, trouble concentrating;
black, bloody, or tarry stools; or
coughing up blood or vomit that looks like coffee grounds.

Less serious side effects may include:

nausea, vomiting, stomach pain;
bloating or gas; or
mild rash or itching.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What other drugs will affect fidaxomicin?

There may be other drugs that can interact with fidaxomicin. Tell your doctor about all the prescription and over-the-counter medications you use. This includes vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start using a new medication without telling your doctor.

Where can I get more information?

Your pharmacist can provide more information about fidaxomicin.

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.
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