Xifaxan

Generic name: Rifaximin

What is Xifaxan?

Xifaxan is an antibiotic-type medicine that is used to treat traveler's diarrhea caused by noninvasive strains of the bacteria Escherichia coli (E. coli) for patients 12 years of age and older.

What is the most important information I should know about Xifaxan?

Xifaxan is not effective in patients with diarrhea complicated by fever and/or blood in the stool or diarrhea due to bacteria other than E. coli. Seek immediate medical attention if you have blood in your bowel movements or if you have a fever.

You should not take Xifaxan if diarrhea symptoms get worse or persist more than 24-48 hours. Alternative antibiotic therapy should be considered.

Who should not take Xifaxan?

You should not take Xifaxan if you are allergic or sensitive to Xifaxan or any other rifamycin-type antibiotics. You should also not take Xifaxan if your diarrhea is caused by any bacteria other than E. coli.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Xifaxan?

Mention all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Xifaxan. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have a fever, blood in your bowel movements, or if you have been taking Xifaxan for more than 48 hours and your symptoms have not improved or have gotten worse.

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

Adults: The usual dosage is 200 milligrams (mg) taken 3 times a day for 3 days.

How should I take Xifaxan?

Xifaxan can be taken with or without food at the same time every day.

What should I avoid while taking Xifaxan?

You should not take Xifaxan for more than 48 hours, if your symptoms worsen, or if you have a fever or bloody bowel movements.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Xifaxan?

If Xifaxan is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. Always check with your doctor before combining Xifaxan with any other drugs, herbs, or supplements.

What are the possible side effects of Xifaxan?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.

Side effects may include: gas, headache, stomach pain, muscle spasms in the rectum, frequent bowel movements, nausea, constipation, fever, vomiting

Can I receive Xifaxan if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

The effects of Xifaxan during pregnancy and breastfeeding are unknown. Tell your doctor immediately if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding. You should only take Xifaxan during pregnancy if the benefits outweigh the risk to your unborn baby. A decision should be made whether to discontinue nursing or to discontinue the drug, taking into account the importance of the drug to the mother.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Xifaxan?

If you forget to take Xifaxan, take it as soon as you remember. If it is closer to your next scheduled dose, skip the dose you missed and take Xifaxan according to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double your doses.

How should I store Xifaxan?

Store at room temperature.