Xifaxan, or rifaximin, is an antibiotic prescribed to help manage travelers’ diarrhea that is caused by noninvasive strains of Escherichia coli (E. coli). In this case, it is for patients aged 12 years and older. Xifaxan is also prescribed to adults with liver failure.
There are several side effects that are caused by taking Xifaxan. These side effects include:
- Nausea
- Constipation
- Vomiting
- Gas
- Bloating
- Stomach pain
- The feeling of needing to urgently empty your bowel
- The feeling that your bowel is not completely empty
- Dizziness
- Headaches
- Swelling in any of your hands, feet, or torso
- Feeling extremely tired
There are also some more serious side effects to taking Xifaxan. These serious side effects include:
- Persistent diarrhea
- Either abdominal or stomach pain or cramping
- Either blood or mucus in your stool
It is suggested that you talk to your doctor immediately if you develop any of the above serious side effects when taking Xifaxan.
Xifaxan tablets are administered orally. The tablets are film-coated and they contain either 200 or 550 mg of rifaximin. When prescribed for diarrhea, a normal dosage of Xifaxan is 200 mg of rifaximin three times a day for three days. When prescribed for hepatic encephalopathy, a normal dosage of Xifaxan is 550 mg of rifaximin twice a day for three days.
The most serious side effects of taking Xifaxan include C. difficile diarrhea as well as continued diarrhea. Continued diarrhea results because of your organisms resistance to the drug.
The use of Xifaxan may interact with other drugs. It is important to inform your doctor of all medications and supplements that you are using and to inform them if anything changes.
The effects of Xifaxan used during pregnancy are not yet well known. Therefore, Xifaxan should only be used when pregnant if the potential benefit outweighs the potential risk to the fetus. You should also consult your doctor before using Xifaxan if you are breastfeeding.
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