Xifaxan and the generic alternative rifaximin are antibiotic medications used to fight bacterial infection in the intestines. It is FDA-approved to treat:

• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
• Travelers’ diarrhea caused by E.coli
• Hepatic encephalopathy in adults

Rifaximin is different from other antibiotics because it passes through the stomach into the intestines without being absorbed into the bloodstream. It works directly in the gut to stop the growth of harmful bacteria that can cause diarrhea and other symptoms. 

Talk to your doctor to see if Xifaxan or generic rifaximin could be right for you based on your symptoms and medical history. When it comes time to fill your prescription, using a safe and reputable online Canadian pharmacy like Canada Pharmacy Depot can help you save up to 90% on the cost of your medication.

Always read the patient information and instructions carefully before taking Xifaxan. Follow your doctor’s directions for using this medication. Notify your doctor if your symptoms do not start to improve within 24 to 48 hours of starting treatment.

• Xifaxan may be taken with or without food.

• When taking Xifaxan for IBS, it is usually taken three times a day for two weeks.

• When taking Xifaxan for travelers’ diarrhea, it is usually taken three times a day for three days.

• When taking Xifaxan for hepatic encephalopathy, it is usually taken twice daily for the duration your doctor recommends.

Use Xifaxan for the full prescribed amount of time, even if your symptoms improve. If you stop taking Xifaxan too early, the infection may return. 

Before taking Xifaxan, make sure to tell your doctor and pharmacist:

• If you have any allergies to medications or other substances.

• What other prescription and over-the-counter medications you're currently taking. 

• Your full medical history, especially involving liver disease, diarrhea with blood or water, or diarrhea along with a fever.

• If you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding. 

Also be aware that:

• Xifaxan should not be used if you are under 12.

• Xifaxan may cause live bacterial vaccines to be less effective. Avoid getting any vaccinations while taking Xifaxan unless your doctor advises it.

Common Xifaxan side effects may include but are not limited to:

• Nausea or stomach pain.

• Excessive tiredness.

• Headache or dizziness.

• Joint pain or muscle tightening.

Contact your doctor if you experience any of the following side effects of Xifaxan:

• Watery or bloody diarrhea with stomach cramps and fever. This may occur during treatment or up to two months afterward.

• Signs of an allergic reaction such as hives, difficulty breathing or a swelling of your face, lips, or throat.

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

If you miss a dose of Xifaxan, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, then skip your missed dose and take your next scheduled dose.

What else is Xifaxan called?

Xifaxan is also marketed internationally under the brand names Xifaxanta and Zaxine. These are not generic alternatives but simply the same rifaximin medication sold under different brand names in other countries. The proper generic name for Xifaxan is rifaximin.

How does Xifaxan work?

The active component in Xifaxan is rifaximin, an antibiotic that works by preventing bacterial growth. Specifically, rifaximin binds to and inhibits an enzyme called RNA polymerase, which bacteria need to convert their genetic material into proteins. By disrupting this critical process, rifaximin effectively stops bacteria from producing the proteins they require to survive and propagate.

Which Xifaxan dosage should I take?

Xifaxan is available in tablet form with 200 mg and 550 mg dosages. The dosage your doctor prescribes depends on the condition being treated.

• For traveler's diarrhea, take 200 mg of Xifaxan three times a day for three days.

• For hepatic encephalopathyin adults, take 550 mg twice a day.

• For IBS-Din adults, take 550 mg of Xifaxan three times a day for fourteen days. If symptoms do not improve after the first 14-day course, your doctor may prescribe up to two more 14-day courses at the same dosage.