Fidaxomicin: An Overview
Summary or Key Points
Fidaxomicin is an antibiotic primarily used for the treatment of Clostridium difficile infections. It has a unique mechanism of action that selectively targets C. difficile, thereby preserving healthy gut microbiota. The article below provides a comprehensive overview of Fidaxomicin, including its brand and generic names, dosage, possible side effects, interactions, and recent research.
Names of Medication
Brand Name: Dificid (Fidaxomicin)
The generic name, which appears in parentheses, is the official medical name of the active ingredient in the drug. The brand name is the name given by the pharmaceutical company that makes the drug.
Pharmacologic Category
Fidaxomicin belongs to the class of medications known as macrolide antibiotics.
Dosing
Always consult your doctor or one of our healthcare providers through our telemedicine service before adjusting your dose.
- Clostridium difficile Infection: 200 mg orally twice daily for 10 days
Dosage Forms and Strengths
Fidaxomicin is available as a 200 mg tablet.
Administration Instructions
Fidaxomicin should be taken with or without food. It is important to complete the full course of treatment, even if you begin to feel better after a few days.
Adverse Reactions and Side Effects
While most people tolerate Fidaxomicin well, it can cause some side effects, which may include:
- Nausea (Common)
- Vomiting (Common)
- Abdominal pain (Common)
- Anemia (Less common)
- Neutropenia (Rare)
Contraindications
Contraindications are conditions or factors that serve as a reason to withhold a certain medical treatment. Fidaxomicin is contraindicated in patients who have a known hypersensitivity to fidaxomicin or any other ingredients in the medication.
Drug to Drug Interactions
As of now, there are no known drug interactions with Fidaxomicin. However, it’s always important to tell your healthcare provider about all medications you’re taking, including prescription, over-the-counter, vitamins, and herbal products.
Fidaxomicin in Pregnancy
Fidaxomicin has not been thoroughly studied in pregnant women. Consult with your healthcare provider if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.
Fidaxomicin while Breastfeeding
It’s not known whether Fidaxomicin passes into breast milk. It is important to discuss with your healthcare provider if you are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed.
Estimated Cost of Medication
The estimated cost for a 30-day supply of Fidaxomicin, without insurance, using a GoodRx coupon is approximately $3500. Keep in mind, prices may vary based on your location and the pharmacy you use.
Possible Alternatives
It’s important to discuss with your healthcare provider, or one of our providers via our telemedicine service, about possible alternatives before making any changes to your treatment plan. For Clostridium difficile Infections, possible alternative treatments include:
- Metronidazole
- Vancomycin
- Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT)
Additionally, a diet rich in fiber and probiotics, good hygiene practices, and regular exercise can help maintain a healthy gut microbiota and potentially prevent Clostridium difficile infections.
Recent Updates on Fidaxomicin Research
Recent studies suggest that Fidaxomicin may be more effective than Vancomycin in preventing recurrences of C. difficile infections. More research is ongoing to understand the long-term impacts and potential new uses of this drug.
Please note that the information provided is general in nature and may not apply to all individuals. Always consult with a healthcare provider, or one of our providers via our telemedicine service, before starting or changing a medication. If you experience any adverse effects or have any questions about your medications, don’t hesitate to reach out to us through our telemedicine services.
Brief Legal Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Reliance on the information provided here is at your own risk.