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 or pharmacist.
Important Safety Information
This service operates under German pharmaceutical law (HWG). For risks and side effects, read the package leaflet and consult your doctor or pharmacist. All medications are dispensed from a licensed pharmacy in Germany.