Sometimes, after taking antibiotics for another illness, you start to have severe diarrhea, right? It's not like a normal stomach ache, but a condition of diarrhea that lasts for days and is difficult to stop. It's at times like these that doctors sometimes prescribe a medicine called Fidaxomicin. So, today we'll talk about this medicine, what it does, how to use it, and what things to be careful about.
What is Fidaxomicin?
Simply put, Fidaxomicin is a specific antibiotic . That is, an antibiotic. But this is not an antibiotic given for a common cough or cold. It belongs to a group of antibiotics called macrolides.
This is mainly used to control a specific bacterial infection that occurs in our intestines. Imagine, when we take a strong antibiotic for another illness, it kills the bad bacteria in our intestines, as well as the good bacteria that help our body. Then, some types of bad bacteria (for example, the bacteria `Clostridium difficile`) start to multiply rapidly and out of control. This medicine called fidaxomicin is often given to treat severe diarrhea that occurs at such times.
Most importantly: This medicine does not work at all for viral infections, such as the common cold or flu. Therefore, it should only be used for the specific condition and only if prescribed by a doctor.
Things you need to tell your doctor before taking this medicine
Before giving you this medicine, your doctor will ask you some questions. However, you should definitely tell your doctor the following information.
| Information you need to provide | Why is that? (Importance) |
|---|---|
| If you are allergic to fidaxomicin or other macrolide drugs (e.g. azithromycin, clarithromycin, erythromycin). | If you are allergic to the medicine, severe allergic reactions can occur. Therefore, it is important to prescribe another medicine to be on the safe side. |
| If you are pregnant or hoping to become pregnant. | Any medication is used during pregnancy only after careful consideration of whether it will affect the unborn child. |
| If you are a breastfeeding mother. | This information is essential to consider whether the ingredients in the medicine can pass to the baby through breast milk. |
| If you have allergies to other medications, foods, or preservatives. | This will help the doctor gain a better understanding of your body's general allergy pattern. |
How exactly do you use this medicine?
The method of using this medicine is very simple, but very important.
- Take this pill with a glass of water.
- You can take it before or after a meal, but if you feel an upset stomach, it is best to take it with a meal.
- Take the medicine exactly at the time prescribed by the doctor, keeping the prescribed number of hours apart.
- The most important thing is to take all the medicine prescribed by the doctor for the full number of days, even if you feel better. Do not stop halfway. If you do, the infection may come back.
Should I give this to small children?
This medicine is sometimes prescribed by pediatricians for children over 6 months of age in special cases. However, it should only be done under the supervision of a doctor.
What to do if you miss a dose and drink too much?
If you miss the deadline
If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Never take a double dose to make up for a forgotten dose.
Overdose
If you think you have taken too much medicine, do not panic and go to the nearest hospital's Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) immediately. Alternatively, call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital for advice.
What are the possible side effects?
Like any medicine, this one can cause side effects in some people. But not everyone does. Let's see what they are.
| Side effect | Description |
|---|---|
| Side effects that should be reported to your doctor immediately | |
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the lips, tongue or face. |
| Difficulty breathing | If you feel like you're having trouble breathing. |
| Blood in the stool | If the stool is bloody, black, or tarry. |
| Vomiting blood | If you vomit blood or something brown like coffee grounds. |
| Dizziness, unusual fatigue | If you feel dizzy or extremely tired, you cannot stand. |
| Tell your doctor if it persists or is bothersome. | |
| Nausea and vomiting | Mild nausea or vomiting when taking the medicine. |
| Stomach ache | Mild stomach pain or discomfort. |
Important: If your symptoms do not improve or worsen, tell your doctor immediately. Also, do not take over-the-counter products for diarrhea without first consulting your doctor.
How do you keep medicine safe?
- Be sure to keep it out of the reach of small children.
- Store at room temperature (between 20-25 degrees Celsius). Keep away from excessive heat and moisture.
- Discard expired medication without using it.
- This medicine is for you only. Do not give your medicine to anyone else.
Take-Home Message
- Fidaxomicin is an antibiotic given to treat a specific bacterial infection in the intestines. It is not used for the common cold or flu.
- Take the full amount of medicine prescribed by the doctor for the full number of days prescribed. Do not stop taking the medicine just because you feel better.
- Be sure to tell your doctor about any other allergies you have and whether you are pregnant or breastfeeding before taking the medication.
- If you experience any serious side effects, such as severe skin rash, difficulty breathing, or blood in your stool, seek medical advice immediately.
- This medicine is for you only. Never share your medicine with others.
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