Rifaximin Antibiotic: Uses and Dosage

Rifaximin is an antibiotic that acts locally in the gut to treat travelers' diarrhea and hepatic encephalopathy. It works by inhibiting bacterial RNA synthesis. Rifaximin is available as tablets or oral suspension.

Rifaximin FAQ

Image credit: wellgo.co.in

How does rifaximin treat hepatic encephalopathy?

Rifaximin is in a class of medications called antibiotics. Rifaximin treats traveler's diarrhea and irritable bowel syndrome by stopping the growth of the bacteria that cause diarrhea. Rifaximin treats hepatic encephalopathy by stopping the growth of bacteria that produce toxins and that may worsen liver disease.

What is Xifaxan (rifaximin) used for?

Xifaxan (rifaximin) is used to treat travelers' diarrhea, irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea (IBS-D), and to reduce risk of hepatic encephalopathy in patients with advanced liver disease. Includes Xifaxan side effects, interactions and indications.

Why is rifaximin prescribed?

Why is this medication prescribed? Rifaximin 200-mg tablets are used to treat traveler's diarrhea caused by certain bacteria in adults and children at least 12 years of age.

What is rifaximin 550 mg used for?

Rifaximin 550-mg tablets are used to prevent episodes of hepatic encephalopathy (changes in thinking, behavior, and personality caused by a build-up of toxins in the brain in people who have liver disease) in adults who have liver disease and to treat irritable bowel syndrome (with diarrhea) in adults.