Xifaxan 200 mg Tablets is an antibiotic containing the active ingredient Rifaximin, which belongs to the rifamycins class of drugs. This medication is characterized by its low absorption into the bloodstream, allowing it to act primarily inside the intestines to eliminate bacteria causing certain gastrointestinal infections, with limited effect on the rest of the body.
What is XIFAXAN rifaximin used for?
Xifaxan 200 mg is used in the following cases:
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Treatment of travelers' diarrhea caused by non-invasive strains of Escherichia coli (E. coli).
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Treatment of certain intestinal bacterial infections based on clinical assessment.
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Treatment of irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea (IBS-D) in adults.
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A doctor may prescribe it for other conditions, such as the prevention of hepatic encephalopathy or the treatment of specific digestive disorders, using different dosages or strengths depending on the case.
Note: Xifaxan must not be used to treat diarrhea accompanied by a high fever or blood in the stool, or if the infection is caused by bacteria that are not susceptible to the drug.
Xifaxan 200 mg dose
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Tablets are taken orally, with or without food.
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The doctor determines the dosage and duration of treatment according to the medical condition.
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For the treatment of travelers' diarrhea, the standard adult dose is one 200 mg tablet three times daily for 3 days.
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It is crucial to complete the full course of treatment, even if symptoms improve.
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If diarrhea persists or symptoms worsen within 24 to 48 hours of starting treatment, consult your doctor.
Xifaxan 200 side effects
Common side effects may include:
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Headache.
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Nausea.
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Abdominal pain or cramping.
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Bloating or gas (flatulence).
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An urgent need to defecate.
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Constipation or diarrhea.
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Dizziness.
Rare side effects may include:
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Severe diarrhea associated with Clostridioides difficile (C. diff) infection.
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Severe allergic reactions, such as skin rash, swelling of the face or lips, or difficulty breathing.
Precautions and Warnings
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Do not use Xifaxan if you are allergic to rifaximin or any antibiotic in the rifamycins class.
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It is not used to treat bacterial infections that have spread outside the gastrointestinal tract.
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Inform your doctor if you have liver disease, particularly severe hepatic impairment.
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Consult your doctor before using this medication during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
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Review with your doctor if the diarrhea is accompanied by a fever or blood in the stool.
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Not recommended for children under 12 years of age unless explicitly advised by a physician.
Drug Interactions
Xifaxan may interact with certain medications. You must inform your doctor or pharmacist about all medications and supplements you are taking, particularly:
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Cyclosporine, as it may increase the absorption of rifaximin.
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Warfarin and other anticoagulants, which may require monitoring of blood clotting time (INR).
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Certain antiepileptic (seizure) medications.
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Certain medications used to treat cardiac arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats).
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Other antibiotics in the rifamycins class.
Storage and Handling
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Store at room temperature.
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Keep away from moisture and direct heat.
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Keep inside the original packaging until the time of use.
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Keep out of reach of children.
Ingredients
Active Ingredient:
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Rifaximin 200 mg per tablet.
Inactive Ingredients:
The tablets may contain excipients, such as:
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Microcrystalline cellulose.
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Sodium starch glycolate.
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Glycerol distearate.
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Colloidal silica.
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Talc.
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Hypromellose.
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Titanium dioxide.
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Disodium edetate.
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Propylene glycol.
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Red iron oxide.
