Rifaximin is a prescription antibiotic that is used to treat bacterial infections, including traveler’s diarrhea, hepatic encephalopathy, and irritable bowel syndrome diarrhea. It is part of an antibiotic drug class called rifamycin antibiotics, which work by inhibiting the growth of bacteria that cause infections. Other rifamycin antibiotics include rifampin, rifabutin and rifapentine.

Rifaximin is currently available under the brand name Xifaxan and comes in the form of a tablet.

Rifaximin is used to treat infections caused by certain types of bacteria. Most commonly, it is used to treat traveler’s diarrhea caused by Escherichia coli (E.coli) bacteria, as well as irritable bowel syndrome. It can also be used as a preventative treatment for hepatic encephalopathy, which can occur when a liver is damaged and is not able to remove toxins from the blood.

It is essential to only use antibiotics like rifaximin when prescribed, as taking antibiotics when they are not needed can increase your chance of contracting an antibiotic-resistant infection. Remember that antibiotics like rifaximin are only effective against bacterial infections and will not work against viral infections such as the cold or flu.

Rifamycin antibiotics like rifaximin work by targeting certain bacterial enzymes that bacteria need in order to replicate. Without those essential proteins, the bacteria can no longer make copies of itself and eventually dies.

Rifaximin works to treat traveler’s diarrhea and irritable bowel syndrome by stopping the growth of the E.coli bacteria that cause diarrhea.

It is thought that rifaximin prevents hepatic encephalopathy by eliminating certain ammonia-producing bacteria. These bacteria can produce ammonia which then infiltrates the bloodstream with toxins, and a damaged liver may struggle to filter those toxins out. By killing the bacteria that produce the ammonia, rifaximin helps to lower blood ammonia levels and therefore prevents toxicity.

While adverse reactions to rifaximin are uncommon, some patients who take the drug may experience side effects which include:

-nausea
-stomach pain
-dizziness
-excessive tiredness
-headache
-muscle tightening
-joint pain

This is not a complete list of adverse effects – though these are among the most common.

Serious side effects include:

• Swelling
• Difficulty breathing
• Skin rash
• Hives
• Watery or bloody diarrhea

Seek medical attention right away if you begin to experience any of these signs and symptoms.

As with all prescription medication, be sure to inform the prescribing doctor about any medical conditions you have been previously diagnosed with, as well as any medication/ supplements you are currently taking before starting treatment with rifaximin.

Rifaximin can interact with other forms of medication and substances, causing potentially serious side effects. Tell your healthcare provider if you are allergic to any other rifamycin antibiotics. You should also be sure to mention any other antibiotics you are taking, including cyclosporine (Gengraf, Neoral, Restasis, Sandimmune), as your doctor may have to change the doses of your medications or explore different treatment options.

In addition, let your doctor know if you are pregnant or plan on becoming pregnant before starting treatment with this medication.

Rifamixin can come in the form of tablets, extended-release tablets, and an oral suspension. Although the typical dosing amount can range from 200mg-550mg up to three times per day, usage and dosing will vary depending on the age of the patient, their diagnosis, and their body weight. Take the medication exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not discontinue or increase your dosage of rifamixin without consulting with your provider first. If you begin to experience adverse side effects while taking this medication, like those listed above, inform your provider right away.

To prevent your infection from becoming resistant to antibiotics, you should continue taking the rifamixin until you finish the prescription, even if you feel better. Do not skip doses or stop taking the rifamixin, and follow your doctor’s instructions closely.

You can take rifaximin with or without food. If you miss a dose of rifaximin, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule.

Tetracyclin should be stored in a closed container at room temperature, away from extreme heat, extreme cold, moisture, and direct light, and keep it out of the reach of children.

Rifaximin is currently only available via prescription. This means the use of this drug must be authorized by a licensed health care provider.

Looking for a prescription? Providers on Sesame can write a prescription – or refill an existing one – during a virtual or in-person visit. Depending on the medication, you can arrange for same-day pickup at a pharmacy near you. Book an online consultation with a licensed provider on Sesame today to determine whether or not rifaximin is right for you.

Note that all prescriptions are at the discretion of your health care provider. Providers on Sesame cannot prescribe controlled substances.

Good news! If deemed clinically appropriate, providers on Sesame can write a prescription for rifaximin to be picked up near you – often within the same day! Simply talk to a clinician and get your online doctor prescription or refill ordered right away for fast and convenient pickup from a pharmacy of your choice.

Note that all prescriptions are at the discretion of your healthcare provider.