What is Xifaxan?
Xifaxan (rifaximin) is an antibacterial medication. Xifaxan is used to treat traveler’s diarrhea caused by E. coli in adults and children who are at least 12 years old. Xifaxan is also used to treat irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea (IBS-D) in adults.
Health Benefits
Xifaxan is an effective medication for the treatment of traveler’s diarrhea and IBS-D. Xifaxan works by inhibiting the growth of bacteria in the intestine. This helps to reduce the symptoms of diarrhea, bloating, and abdominal pain.
Side Effects
Xifaxan is generally well-tolerated. The most common side effects are headache, nausea, and abdominal pain. Xifaxan may also cause dizziness. If you experience any of these side effects, it is important to contact your doctor.
Dosage
The recommended dosage of Xifaxan for the treatment of traveler’s diarrhea is 550 mg taken orally three times daily for 7 days. For the treatment of IBS-D, the recommended dosage is 550 mg taken orally twice daily for 14 days.
Interactions
Xifaxan may interact with other medications. Be sure to tell your doctor about all the medications you take, including over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
Mechanism of Action
Xifaxan works by inhibiting the growth of bacteria in the intestine. This helps to reduce the symptoms of diarrhea, bloating, and abdominal pain.
Please discuss the above content with your doctor or pharmacist before taking Xifaxan.
Pharmacokinetics
Xifaxan is rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract and has an elimination half-life of 12-16 hours. Xifaxan is excreted primarily in the feces as unchanged drug.
Please discuss the above content with your doctor or pharmacist before taking Xifaxan.
Alternatives to Xifaxan
There are no alternatives to Xifaxan.
If you have traveler’s diarrhea or IBS-D, please discuss treatment with Xifaxan with your doctor.
How long does it take to work?
Xifaxan generally works within a few days. For the treatment of traveler’s diarrhea, Xifaxan should be taken for 7 days. For the treatment of IBS-D, Xifaxan should be taken for 14 days.
Can I take Xifaxan with food?
Yes, you can take Xifaxan with food. Taking Xifaxan with food may help to reduce the risk of gastrointestinal side effects.
