Key facts about Rifaximin
What dosages is Rifaximin available in?
Rifaximin is available as a 200 mg and 550 mg oral tablet.
What is Rifaximin used for?
Rifaximin is a rifamycin antibiotic and is used for the following:
- Treatment of travelers’ diarrhea caused by E. coli in people ages 12 years and older
- Treatment of irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea (IBS-D) in adults
- Prevention of hepatic encephalopathy (HE) in adults
How does Rifaximin work?
Rifaximin is a rifamycin antibiotic. It works by stopping bacteria from making important proteins that the bacteria need to survive. As a result, the bacteria can’t grow or spread.
How do I take Rifaximin?
Rifaximin is dosed as follows:
- Travelers’ diarrhea: The typical dose is 200 mg by mouth three times daily for 3 days
- Hepatic encephalopathy: The typical dose is 550 mg by mouth twice daily
- Irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea (IBS-D): The typical dose is 550 mg by mouth three times daily for 2 weeks. If your symptoms come back after treatment, your prescriber might decide to take the medication again using the same treatment course. Your can repeat the treatment course for up to 2 times
Is it safe for me to take Rifaximin?
Rifaximin is a safe and effective treatment when used for FDA licensed indications. However, like all medications, they may give you unwanted side effects. You should always discuss potential side effects with your physician to ensure the medication is suitable and right for you. You should not use this medication if you have a hypersensitivity to Rifaximin, rifamycin antimicrobial agents, or any of the components of Rifaximin.
Rifaximin Common Side Effects
Common side effects of Rifaximin:
- Swelling in hands and feet
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Tiredness
- Extra stomach fluid and swelling
- Headache
Rifaximin Serious Side Effects
Serious side effects are rare with Rifaximin. Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
- C. difficile-related diarrhea: rapid heart rate, foul-smelling diarrhea, fever, nausea, frequent bowel movements (even up to 15 times per day)
- Severe allergic reaction: rash; trouble breathing; swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
Effects of other drugs, drug classes and over-the-counter products on Rifaximin
The following medications may interact with Rifaximin:
- Warfarin: Monitor INR and prothrombin time; dose adjustment of warfarin may be needed to maintain target INR range
Who makes Rifaximin?
Various FDA-approved generic manufacturers
Is Rifaximin safe in pregnancy?
Rifaximin may harm your unborn baby. Tell your
healthcare provider if you are pregnant or think you are pregnant.
