Rifaximin
Description
Generic Name: rifaximin
Drug class: rifamycin antibiotic
Xifaxan Details
Xifaxan (rifaximin) is an oral prescription indicated to treat travelers’ diarrhea that is caused by noninvasive strains of E. coli bacteria among people 12 years of age and above. It is also used to treat irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea and reduce the risk of overt hepatic encephalopathy recurrence in adults. This should not be used if diarrhea is accompanied by fever or bloody stool and diarrhea due to pathogens other than E. coli. This is available in Xifaxan 550 mg and 200 mg tablets.
Have Side Effects of Xifaxan
Mild & Common Side Effects:
-Nausea
-Headache
-Dizziness
-Gas
-Bloating
-Tired feeling
– Feeling as if your bowels aren’t quite emptied
Severe Side Effects:
-Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea (persistent diarrhea, severe abdominal pain or cramping, blood or mucus in the stool)
Note that this is not a full/complete list of the side effects of Xifaxan.
If you experience severe or persistent adverse reactions, discontinue medication and consult your doctor or any healthcare professional.
Xifaxan Warnings
Do not take this oral prescription if you have a known allergy to rifaximin or any inactive ingredients each tablet contains. Look out for any signs of a severe allergic reaction, such as difficulty breathing, swelling of the face and neck, severe dizziness, hives/itchiness, and skin rashes. Once this occurs, immediately stop taking this medication and seek emergency medical attention.
Certain conditions may significantly affect how your body will respond to Xifaxan. Disclose the entire medical history to the physician. This includes any history of recent bacterial infections, liver disease, or kidney disease. Due to drug interactions, it is also necessary to talk about all the prescription drugs, nonprescription medications, herbal products, & supplements you are taking.
Unless the physician tells you to, do not get immunized or vaccinated while on this medication. Rifampicin may cause live attenuated bacterial vaccines, like typhoid vaccine or BCG, to not work well.
This antibacterial drug should only be used if extremely necessary if a woman is pregnant or breastfeeding. Prior to using this medication, discuss the possible risks and benefits with your doctor or healthcare provider.
Xifaxan Mechanism of Action
This antibacterial drug works by binding the beta-subunit of bacterial DNA-dependent RNA polymerase, which blocks a step-in transcription. It impedes bacterial protein synthesis and also inhibits the growth of bacteria. It does not treat any viral infections, such as flu, measles, or common colds.
How to Use Xifaxan
Before taking Xifaxan, it is necessary to read the information leaflet or medication guide given by a healthcare professional. You must not take any medication unless you have understood all the information regarding it. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for further medical advice or additional details.
This tablet is only meant to be taken by mouth. You may administer your dose with or without a meal. Swallow the tablet as a whole and drink a glass of water. This tablet is not meant to be crushed or chewed. It has a coating that allows it to pass through the stomach and into the lower GI tract.
Don’t forget to take your medication by creating a dosing schedule. This is usually prescribed two or three times a day, at evenly spaced intervals. Take it exactly as directed. Do not increase or decrease your dosing or frequency as they are based on your overall health condition and response to therapy. You should also keep taking this medication for as long as the doctor prescribes it.
Common Questions About Xifaxan
1. Is Xifaxan safe for children?
Clinical trials show that this is safe for minors 12 years of age and above.
2. Can I use Xifaxan for SIBO?
Rifaximin may relieve SIBO symptoms.
3. Does Xifaxan cause bloating?
This medication may cause mild stomach pain and bloat.
4. Why is Xifaxan so expensive?
The lack of alternatives for Xifaxan on the market to treat the same condition this medication treats is another factor contributing to its high price.
What is The Price of Xifaxan?
You may check the pricing of this product by clicking here.