What is Xifaxan?
Xifaxan® contains the active ingredient rifaximin, a non-resorbable antibiotic that acts almost exclusively in the intestine. It is used for the prevention and treatment of travel diarrhea, in particular by enterotoxic E. coli (ETEC).
Although Xifaxan® is used primarily in travel, it is also permitted to treat hepatic encephalopathy and prophylaxis of strokes. The particular advantage: Since rifaximin is hardly absorbed into the blood, systemic side effects are very rare.
Active Ingredients & Mechanism of Action
Active ingredient: Rifaximin
Active mechanism:
- inhibits bacterial RNA synthesis by binding to the beta subunit of the DNA-dependent RNA polymerase
- Works bactericidal against a wide spectrum of gram-positive and gram-negative intestinal bacteria
- Almost no systemic absorption (< 1 % is recorded)
Advantages of local action:
- High concentrations directly in the intestine
- Hardly systemic side effects
- Low disorder of normal intestinal flora
- No resistance problem at systemic level
Activity spectrum: Effective against the most common pathogens of travel breakdown: enterotoxic E. coli (ETEC), Shigella, Salmonella, Campylobacter.
Who is it suitable for?
Xifaxan® is suitable for:
- Prevention of travel accidents in risk areas
- Treatment of uncomplicated travellers
- Adults aged 18 years
Not suitable:
- Heavy, bloody diarrhea (Dysenterie) → systemic antibiotic necessary
- diarrhea with high fever
- diarrhea caused by parasites (e.g. Giardia, Amöben)
- Children under 12 years of age (inappropriate data)
- Sensitivity to Rifaximin or Rifamycins
Available Dosages
Prophylaxe:
- 200 mg twice a day during the stay
- Start the day of arrival
- Maximum prophylaxis duration: 14 days
Therapy of travel:
- 200 mg three times a day for 3 days
Available starches:
- 200 mg, 550 mg film tablets
Hepatic encephalopathy (other indication):
- 550 mg twice a day as continuous therapy
How to Take
Intake:
- Take with or without food
- Sucking pills in whole
- Regular distance between cans
Important notes:
- In case of deterioration despite therapy (fieber, bloody chair) immediately consult doctor
- Do not consider Xifaxan® as sole protection – observe hygiene measures!
- Sufficient liquid and electrolyte feed in case of diarrhea
- Do not take more than 14 days for prophylaxis
Contraindications
**Xifaxan® must not be accepted at:* *
- Sensitivity to Rifaximin or other Rifamycin derivatives
- Intestinal closure
Preview at:
- Heavy liver function disorder (in hepatic encephalopathy: under surveillance)
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding (inappropriate data)
- simultaneous use of P-glycoprotein inhibitors (e.g. ciclosporin)
Possible Side Effects
Family (1–10 %):
- Headaches
- Blowing
- stomach pain
- nausea
- Blocking
** Occasionally (0.1-1 %):* *
- Squeeze
- Skin rash
- fever
- muscle pain
Selten:
- C.-difficile infection (despite local action possible)
- Allergic reactions
General: Due to minimal systemic absorption, side effects are rare and mild. Xifaxan® is one of the most compatible antibiotics.
Frequently Asked Questions
Similar Medications
Is Xifaxan right for you?
A licensed doctor will review your information and issue a prescription if suitable. Discreet and secure.
Important Notice
This information does not replace medical advice. If you have questions about your health or the suitability of this medication, please consult a doctor. Read the package leaflet before use.