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Fidaxomicin

Antibiotic

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What is fidaxomicin?

Fidaxomicin (also called Dificid®) is used to treat diarrhea caused by a bacterial infection called Clostridioides difficile (C.diff). It may be given to you for other reasons. Talk with the doctor. It is available as a 200 mg tablet taken by mouth.

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Possible side effects

Most Common:

  • Nausea
  • Stomach pain
  • Throwing up
  • Loose stools (diarrhea)

If you have any of these side effects, tell the doctor right away:

  • Short of breath
  • Black, tarry or bloody stools
  • Throwing up blood
  • Chills
  • Severe loss of strength and energy
  • Signs of an allergic reaction like wheezing; chest tightness; fever; itching; bad cough; blue skin color; seizures; or swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, hives, itching, chills, fever, headache, muscle ache, shortness of breath, coughing, tightness in the throat, swelling of the face or neck.

Not all patients who take fidaxomicin will experience these side effects. Common side effects are bolded, but there may be others. Please report all suspected side effects to your doctor or pharmacist.

Find more information on side effects.

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Tips for patients and families

Be sure to discuss all questions and instructions with your doctor or pharmacist. 

  • Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.
  • Take your medicine at the same time each day.
  • Take the tablet with or without food.
  • Take all the medicine in your prescription to clear up your infection, even if you feel better after the first few doses.
  • Missed dose: Take a dose as soon as you remember. If it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your normal time. Do not take 2 doses at the same time or extra doses.
  • Store the tablets in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture and direct light.
  • Tell your doctor if:
    •  you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or
    •  you have an allergy to macrolide antibiotics.
  • Always give a complete list of medicines you are taking to your doctor or pharmacist. Check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking any new vitamins, herbals or other medicines.
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Always check the medication label. Many medicines look the same. Do not take any new medicine, including over-the counter medicines or supplements, without checking with your doctor or pharmacist. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about what to do in the case of a missed dose, allergic reaction, or medical emergency. 

This information is not intended to be a complete guide and is not a substitute for talking with your provider. Medicine names, appearance, formulas, or availability may vary by clinic location. Always follow the instructions given by your care team.

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Reviewed: June 2024