Introduction

Uses of Rimstar 4-FDC

Tuberculosis (TB)

Side effects of Rimstar 4-FDC

Nausea
Vomiting
Rash
Fever
Dark colored urine
Sweating
Increased sputum production
Salivation
Watery eyes
Peripheral neuropathy (tingling and numbness of feet and hand)
Increased liver enzymes
Jaundice
Increased uric acid level in blood
Visual impairment

How to use Rimstar 4-FDC

Take this medicine in the dose and duration as advised by your doctor. Check the label before use. Rimstar 4-FDC is to be taken empty stomach. \nAvoid Rimstar 4-FDC with tyramine-rich food such as cheese, smoked fish, meats and some types of beer.

How Rimstar 4-FDC works

Rimstar 4-FDC is a combination of four medicines: Isoniazid, rifampicin, ethambutol and pyrazinamide which treat tuberculosis. Isoniazid works by preventing the TB bacteria from forming their own protective covering, while rifampicin inactivates a bacterial enzyme (RNA-polymerase) which is required by TB bacteria to make essential proteins and to reproduce. Together, they kill the bacteria and eradicate the infection. Ethambutol and pyrazinamide on the other hand, work by slowing the growth of these bacteria.

Quick Tips

You have been prescribed Rimstar 4-FDC for the treatment of tuberculosis.
Take it on an empty stomach and preferably at the same time everyday.
Try not to forget a dose, as this increases the risk of the bacteria becoming resistant to the medicine, and also increases the risk of getting side effects.
It may discolour your urine, sweat, saliva and tears a reddish/orange colour. This is normal and not harmful.
Your doctor may check your liver function before starting treatment and regularly thereafter. Inform your doctor if you notice yellowing of eyes or skin, dark urine, or stomach pain.
Avoid drinking alcohol while taking Rimstar 4-FDC as this may increase the risk of side effects on the liver.
It may cause vitamin B6 deficiency. Your doctor may prescribe vitamin B6 supplements to help avoid potential problems associated with its deficiency, such as inflammation of the nerves (neuritis).
Use a reliable contraceptive method (such as condoms or a diaphragm) to prevent pregnancy while you are taking Rimstar 4-FDC as it may make hormonal contraceptives such as the pill less effective.
Do not take indigestion remedies (antacids) within at least two hours of taking Rimstar 4-FDC.
Finish the full course of the medication, even if you feel better. Stopping the course early increases the risk of coming back of the infection.

Safety Advice

UNSAFE – Alcohol: Consuming alcohol while taking Rimstar 4-FDC may cause symptoms such as flushing, increased heart beat, nausea, thirst, chest pain and low blood pressure (Disulfiram reaction).
CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR – Pregnancy: Rimstar 4-FDC may be unsafe to use during pregnancy. Although there are limited studies in humans, animal studies have shown harmful effects on the developing baby. Your doctor will weigh the benefits and any potential risks before prescribing it to you. Please consult your doctor.
SAFE IF PRESCRIBED – Breastfeeding: Rimstar 4-FDC is probably safe to use during breastfeeding. Limited human data suggests that the drug does not represent any significant risk to the baby.
UNSAFE – Driving: Rimstar 4-FDC may cause side effects which could affect your ability to drive.\nRimstar 4-FDC occasionally causes sight problems and tingling or numbness in hand or feet. After taking this medicine you should not drive until you know how it affects you.
CAUTION – Kidney: Rimstar 4-FDC should be used with caution in patients with kidney disease. Dose adjustment of Rimstar 4-FDC may be needed. Please consult your doctor.\nKidney function tests are advisable before the start of this medicine.
CAUTION – Liver: Rimstar 4-FDC should be used with caution in patients with liver disease. Dose adjustment of Rimstar 4-FDC may be needed. Please consult your doctor.\nRegular monitoring of liver function tests is advised before and after the start of the treatment.