Dificid (fidaxomicin) is an macrolide antibiotic that works by killing sensitive bacteria.
Dificid is used to treat diarrhea caused by a infection with Clostridium difficile.
Dificid may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Important information
You should not use Dificid if you are allergic to fidaxomicin. Take Dificid 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.
Dificid 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. Dificid 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.
Before taking this medicine
You should not use Dificid if you are allergic to fidaxomicin. Dificid should not be used to treat infections that are not related to Clostridium difficile. Dificid 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.
FDA pregnancy category B. Dificid 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 Dificid to anyone under 18 years old without medical advice.
See also: Pregnancy and breastfeeding warnings (in more detail)
How should I take Dificid?
Take Dificid 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.
Dificid is usually taken 2 times each day for 10 days. Follow your doctor"s instructions.
You may take this medicine with or without food.
Take Dificid 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.
Store Dificid 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?
Follow your doctor"s instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.
Dificid side effects
Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction to Dificid: 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:
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fever, chills, body aches, flu symptoms, sores in your mouth and throat;
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pale skin, feeling light-headed or short of breath, rapid heart rate, trouble concentrating;
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black, bloody, or tarry stools; or
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coughing up blood or vomit that looks like coffee grounds.
Less serious Dificid side effects may include:
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.
See also: Side effects (in more detail)
What other drugs will affect Dificid?
There may be other drugs that can interact with Dificid. 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.
