What is Xifaxan prescribed for?
Xifaxan is prescribed to treat diarrhea caused by the common bacteria known as escherichia coli ("traveler's diarrhea"). There is a risk of fever and bloody diarrhea when taking Xifaxan (Rifaximin). It stops the growth of bacteria in the body. Infections caused by viruses (such as common colds and flu) will not be treated by this antibiotic. Using an antibiotic when it is not necessary can make its effectiveness in the future useless.
Xifaxan (Rifaximin) Information
Use of Xifaxan
Depending on your medical condition and response to treatment, the dosage will vary.
Generally, this medication should be taken 3 times a day (every 8 hours) for 3 days to treat traveler's diarrhea. Dose for adults and children may be different.
Take this medication as directed by your doctor. Usually for 14 days, three times a day, with or without food in order to treat irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea.
Your healthcare professional may recommend taking this medication twice a day (every 12 hours) with or without food to prevent hepatic encephalopathy.
This antibiotic should be taken at evenly spaced intervals. To help you remember, take it at the same time(s) every day. If you miss a dose you can take it when you remember. You can skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next one.
In the event of traveler's diarrhea, the medication should be continued until the entire prescribed amount is used. If you stop the medication too early, you may experience a relapse.
When you still have diarrhea after one or two days, it is bloody or accompanied by a fever, tell your doctor. If the diarrhea does not improve or worsen, see your doctor.
Store tablets at room temperature away from children and animals when not in use.
Possible side effects of Xifaxan
Few known side effects of Rifaximin include:
- constipation
- fever
- abdominal pain
- gas
- dizziness
- rapid weight gain
- trouble breathing
- stomach pain
- feeling like you need to urgently empty your bowel
- feeling your bowel is not completely empty
- severe stomach pain
- vomiting
- bloating
- bloating
- tired feeling
- nausea
- headache
- diarrhea that is watery or bloody (even if it occurs months after your last dose)
- swelling in your hands, feet, or torso
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects or adverse effects.
Drug Interactions of Xifaxan Tablet
Few Known Drug Interactions of Rifaximin:
- Tramadol
- Dicyclomine
- Atorvastatin
- Lisinopril
- Ondansetron
- Hydroxyzine
- Lactulose
- Albuterol
- Tylenol (Acetaminophen)
- Propranolol
- Famotidine
- Gabapentin
- Furosemide
- Pantoprazole
- Lasix (Furosemide)
- Spironolactone
- Levothyroxine
- Prednisone
- Zofran (Ondansetron)
- Folic Acid
- Trazodone
- Omeprazole
- Oxycodone
- Metformin
- Melatonin
This is not a complete list of Drug Interactions or adverse reactions. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without consulting your doctor.
Xifaxan costs
Starting price of Xifaxan Tablet 200mg (Product of Australia)
- 9 tabs - $97.82 USD ($10.87 per tabs)
- 18 tabs - $159.56 USD ($8.86 per tabs)
- 27 tabs - $236.10 USD ($8.74 per tabs)
Generic Equivalent Rifaximin cost
Starting price of Rifaximin Tablet 200 mg (Product of India)
- 100 tabs - $51.97 USD ($0.52 per tabs)
- 200 tabs - $100.52 USD ($0.50 per tabs)
- 300 tabs - $141.66 USD ($0.47 per tabs)
Xifaxan (Rifaximin) FAQs
How long does Xifaxan stay in your system?
Xifaxan has about a 6-hour half-life, which means half of the drug is eliminated from the body after 6 hours. The blood level of Xifaxan can remain detectable for 24 hours following a single dose. Certain factors can impact the time it takes for a drug to be completely eliminated from the body.
Should I take a probiotic while taking Xifaxan?
Taking a probiotic while taking Xifaxan can be beneficial for some people. Xifaxan is an antibiotic that works by killing harmful bacteria in the gut. However, it can also kill beneficial bacteria, which can lead to an imbalance in the gut microbiome.
However, it's important to note that not all antibiotics are the same, and some may be more effective than others. It's best to consult with a healthcare provider to determine which probiotic supplement is best for your needs.
Does Rifaximin kill good bacteria?
Rifaximin can kill some types of good bacteria in the gut along with harmful bacteria. This is because Rifaximin is a broad-spectrum antibiotic, meaning it can target a wide range of bacteria in the gut. This can include good or bad bacteria.
How does Rifaximin work for hepatic encephalopathy?
Rifaximin works for hepatic encephalopathy (HE) by reducing the number of harmful bacteria in the gut that produce ammonia. It is a toxin that can build up in the bloodstream in people with liver disease.
Can I Buy Xifaxan (Rifaximin) Over the Counter?
No, you cannot buy Xifaxan (Rifaximin) over the counter since it is a prescription medication. Prescriptions can only be written by licensed healthcare providers, such as physicians or nurse practitioners.