Description
Indications
Rifaximin is indicated for the treatment of traveler’s diarrhea, which is caused by the common bacterium Escherichia coli. It is also prescribed for managing diarrhea associated with irritable bowel syndrome and can aid in preventing hepatic encephalopathy, a brain disorder associated with liver disease. Rifaximin should not be used in cases where the patient is experiencing a fever or bloody diarrhea.
This medication functions by inhibiting bacterial growth and is solely effective against bacterial infections. It is not useful in treating viral infections, such as the flu or the common cold. Overuse of antibiotics can result in their decreased efficacy for future infections, hence, Rifaximin should only be used when necessary.
Uses and Dosage
Rifaximin is available in tablet form and can be taken orally with or without food. The dosage and frequency of rifaximin intake depend on the condition being treated.
For traveler’s diarrhea, the usual regimen is three times daily for three days. For prevention of episodes of hepatic encephalopathy, the usual dosage is twice daily, whereas for treating irritable bowel syndrome, the medication is taken three times daily for 14 days.
Consistent timing of rifaximin intake is essential to avoid missing doses. The medication must be taken precisely as directed, without taking more or less than recommended, or increasing the frequency of administration.
Patients taking rifaximin for traveler’s diarrhea should experience symptomatic improvement within 24 to 48 hours of starting treatment. In cases where symptoms persist, worsen, or fever or bloody diarrhea occurs, patients must contact their healthcare provider immediately.
If rifaximin is being used for treating irritable bowel syndrome, and symptoms return after completing the treatment course, patients must contact their healthcare provider.
Patients must complete the entire course of rifaximin treatment, even if they feel better, as stopping too soon or skipping doses may result in incomplete eradication of the infection, leading to antibiotic resistance.
Patients taking rifaximin to prevent hepatic encephalopathy must not discontinue the medication without consulting their healthcare provider, as abrupt discontinuation may trigger encephalopathy symptoms.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- nausea
- stomach pain
- dizziness
- excessive tiredness
- headache
- muscle tightening
- joint pain
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- watery or bloody diarrhea that may occur along with stomach cramps and fever during your treatment or for 2 months afterward
- hives
- rash
- itching
- difficulty breathing or swallowing
- swelling of the face, throat, tongue, lips, eyes, hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs
- hoarseness
Caution
Prior to taking rifaximin, inform your healthcare provider or pharmacist if you have a known allergy to rifaximin or any other rifamycin antibiotics (such as rifampin and rifabutin), or if you have any other allergies. This medication may contain inactive ingredients that can cause an allergic reaction or other related issues.
Before commencing the use of this medication, provide your medical history to your healthcare provider or pharmacist.
Rifaximin can affect the efficacy of live bacterial vaccines such as the typhoid vaccine. Inform your healthcare professional that you are taking rifaximin before receiving any immunizations or vaccinations.
During pregnancy, this medication should only be used when it is absolutely necessary. Discuss the benefits and risks with your healthcare provider.
It is unclear if this medication passes into breast milk. Cconsult with your healthcare provider before initiating breastfeeding.
Form and Strength
Xifaxan is available in the following forms and strengths:
-
Xifaxan tablet:
- 200mg
- 550mg
-
rifaximin tablet:
- 200mg
- 400mg
- 550mg
FAQ
How quickly does Xifaxan work?
For traveler’s diarrhea, symptoms usually ease within 3 days of starting treatment. For IBS-D, it may take up to 2 weeks for symptom relief after you begin taking Xifaxan. And it may take several weeks for Xifaxan to reduce your risk of having repeated episodes of overt hepatic encephalopathy.
How does Xifaxan make you feel?
The most common reported side effect of Xifaxan is feeling gassy.
Resources
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/drugs-xifaxan#how-it-works
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a604027.html
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-91340/xifaxan-oral/details
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/rifaximin-oral-route/side-effects/drg-20065817?p=1
- https://www.drugs.com/xifaxan.html