Rifaximin (Xifaxan)
- Targets bacterial diarrhoea at the source
- Minimal absorption in the body
- Fast-acting relief for traveller’s diarrhoea
Product Information
Better health begins with the right choices.
Dr. C. Alexandru
General Medicine Doctor | CUIM: 2791492305Dr. Cosmin Alexandru has 20+ years in emergency and family medicine, now serving at County Clinic Hospital Sibiu.
Description
Rifaximin, commonly known by the brand name Xifaxan, is an antibiotic used to treat various digestive tract infections, particularly traveller’s diarrhoea caused by specific bacteria. What makes rifaximin unique is that it acts almost exclusively in the gastrointestinal tract, meaning very little of the medicine is absorbed into the bloodstream. This localized action helps target the infection at its source while minimizing effects elsewhere in the body.
The medication is especially useful for short-term relief of diarrhoea caused by Escherichia Coli, a common bacterium responsible for traveller’s diarrhoea. Unlike some broader-spectrum antibiotics, Rifaximin is less likely to disturb the balance of gut flora, which can help reduce the risk of further digestive upset. It is often taken for a few days, typically in tablet form, and users may notice improvement within 24 to 48 hours after beginning treatment.
It is generally well tolerated, though mild side effects like headache, nausea, or abdominal cramps may occur. Rifaximin is also used for other conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhoea (IBS-D) and in some cases to reduce the risk of complications in liver disease, though these uses are more specialized.
General Information
Rifaximin is a non-absorbed antibiotic primarily used to treat traveller’s diarrhoea caused by bacteria. It is known for acting locally in the gut rather than systemically.
It is used to treat traveller’s diarrhoea caused by non-invasive strains of E. Coli. It may also be used in managing IBS-D and hepatic encephalopathy, although these are more specialized indications.
Rifaximin works by stopping the growth of bacteria in the gut. It remains mostly in the intestines and is not absorbed into the bloodstream, making it effective for gut-specific infections.
For traveller’s diarrhoea, the usual dosage is 200 mg three times daily for 3 days. Always follow your prescription instructions.
Many people notice an improvement within one or two days of starting the medication, though it should be taken for the full prescribed duration.
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it’s nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed one. Do not double up.
Safety & Side Effects
Common side effects may include nausea, headache, flatulence, and abdominal pain. Serious side effects are rare.
Do not use rifaximin if you have a known allergy to rifamycin antibiotics. It is not suitable for diarrhoea due to fever or blood in the stool.
Generally, rifaximin has few interactions, but always inform your doctor or pharmacist about any other medicines you are using.
There is limited information on its use during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Always consult a healthcare provider for guidance.
There are no specific interactions with alcohol, but it is advisable to stay hydrated and avoid irritants during treatment.
Usage & Administration
Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water. Do not chew or crush the tablet.
Store at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light. Keep out of reach of children.
It can be taken with or without food.
No, the tablet should be taken whole to ensure proper delivery and efficacy.
Ordering & Delivery
To get [Product name], fill out a medical form or book a video consult with a doctor via Transtoyou. After approval, your prescription is sent to the pharmacy for fast delivery.
[Product name] requires a valid prescription, which is issued after the doctor reviewed your answered in the medical questionnaire or via a video consultation with the doctor.
After approval by a doctor from Transtoyou, the prescription of [Product name] is forwarded to an affiliated pharmacy and typically shipped within 1–2 working days.
For safety and legal reasons prescription medication (RX) and in this case [Product name] is non-returnable once shipped.
