Indications
Xifaxan (active ingredient: rifaximin) is a prescription medication indicated for the following uses:
- Treatment of Travelers’ Diarrhea: Xifaxan is indicated for the treatment of travellers’ diarrhea caused by non-invasive strains of Escherichia coli in patients aged 12 years and older.
- Reduction in Risk of Overt Hepatic Encephalopathy Recurrence: Xifaxan is indicated to reduce the risk of recurrence of overt hepatic encephalopathy in adults.
- Treatment of Irritable Bowel Syndrome with Diarrhea (IBS-D): Xifaxan is indicated for the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea in adults.
Xifaxan belongs to a class of medications known as rifamycin antibiotics.
Uses and Dosage
Xifaxan is available as a prescription medication and comes in tablet form, typically taken with or without food three times a day for a specified duration, depending on the condition being treated. Take the medication exactly as prescribed and complete the full course of treatment to ensure the complete eradication of the bacteria. However, it is always best to consult with a healthcare provider to determine if Xifaxan is the appropriate treatment option for you.
The typical dosing for Xifaxan (rifaximin) depends on the condition being treated.
- For travelers' diarrhea, the standard dose can be from 1 - 3 times per day. Please consult your healthcare provider about dosage for travelers' diarrhea.
- For hepatic encephalopathy, the standard dose is 550 mg or 400 mg by mouth twice daily.
- For diarrhea in irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea (IBS-D), the standard dose is 550 mg by mouth three times daily for 14 days.
In case of symptom recurrence, the treatment can be repeated for up to two additional courses. The dosing may vary based on individual patient circumstances, and it is always best to follow your healthcare provider's instructions.
Side Effect
Common Side Effects of Xifaxan (Rifaximin):
- Abdominal discomfort
- Constipation
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Gas/bloating
- Have the impression that your bowel is not entirely emptied
- Headache
- Nausea
- Vomiting
Serious Side Effects of Xifaxan (Rifaximin):
- Blood or mucus in the stool
- Confusion
- Fever
- Irregular heartbeat
- Persistent diarrhea
- Rapid changes in weight
- Severe abdominal pain
- Severe headache
- Severe stomach pain
- Vision changes
Xifaxan (Rifaximin) Allergic Reaction Includes:
- Itching
- Rashes
- Severe dizziness
- Swelling of the mouth, face, and/or neck
- Trouble breathing
Form and Strength
Xifaxan (Rifaximin) is available in the following forms and strength:
Xifaxan: Tablet
- 200 mg
- 550 mg
Rifaximin: Tablet
- 200 mg
- 400 mg
- 550 mg
Caution
- If you miss a dose of Xifaxan, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed dose.
- If you take antibiotics, like Xifaxan, there is a chance you could experience diarrhea caused by an overgrowth of c. difficile. This can cause symptoms ranging in severity from mild diarrhea to life-threatening colitis. Contact your healthcare provider if your diarrhea does not improve or worsens.
- Xifaxan may cause serious side effects, including severe stomach pain and watery diarrhea.
- Caution should be exercised when concomitantly using Xifaxan and other drugs. It may interact with other drugs, so keep a list of all products you use.
- Xifaxan is not for everyone. Do not take Xifaxan if you have a known hypersensitivity to rifaximin, any of the rifamycin antimicrobial agents, or any of the components in Xifaxan.
- If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or nursing, talk to your healthcare provider before taking Xifaxan because Xifaxan may cause harm to an unborn baby or nursing infant.
- Talk to your healthcare provider before taking Xifaxan if you have severe hepatic (liver) impairment, as this may cause increased effects of the medicine.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Are there any side effects associated with Xifaxan?
Yes, some common side effects associated with Xifaxan include nausea, stomach pain, bloating, gas, headache, and dizziness. However, not everyone experiences side effects.
How long does it take for Xifaxan to work?
The duration of treatment with Xifaxan varies depending on the condition being treated. For traveler's diarrhea, Xifaxan is typically taken for 3 days. For IBS-D, treatment usually lasts for 14 days. For HE, the duration of treatment can be up to 3 months. Complete the full course of treatment to ensure the complete eradication of the bacteria.
Can Xifaxan be taken with other medications?
Some medications may interact with Xifaxan, potentially increasing the risk of side effects. Your healthcare provider can determine if Xifaxan is appropriate for you based on your specific health circumstances.
Is Rifaximin safe for pregnant or breastfeeding women?
Studies have not been conducted to determine the safety of Rifaximin in pregnant or breastfeeding women, so do not use in these populations unless the potential benefits outweigh the risks.
Does Rifaximin require a prescription?
Yes, Rifaximin is a prescription medication and requires a prescription from a licensed healthcare provider.
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