Table of Contents

I. Uses for Xifaxan

II. Viral Infection vs. Bacterial Infection

III. Xifaxan & Typhoid Vaccine

IV. Take Your Whole Dosage

V. FAQ: How do I know if Xifaxan is the right treatment for my symptoms?

Uses for Xifaxan

Xifaxan is a prescription antibiotic that contains rifaximin. It is used to treat traveler’s diarrhea caused by noninvasive strains of E. coli in adults and children 12 and older and to treat irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea (IBS-D) in adults. [1] Traveler’s diarrhea is usually caused by eating contaminated food or drinking contaminated water. [2]

Loose or watery stools are the main symptom, but traveler’s diarrhea may also cause:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Bloating
• Abdominal pain or cramps
• Fever
• An urgent need to use the bathroom [2]

Your doctor will prescribe the appropriate dose and treatment length for your condition. Take Xifaxan exactly as directed, even if you begin to feel better. Skipping doses or stopping treatment too soon may prevent the infection from being completely treated and may contribute to antibiotic resistance. [3]

Knowing how to take Xifaxan properly can help you use the medication safely and understand when to contact your doctor. Read on to learn more about taking Xifaxan for traveler’s diarrhea or IBS-D.

Viral Infection vs. Bacterial Infection

Traveler’s diarrhea can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites, although bacteria are the most common cause. E. coli is one of the bacteria that can cause traveler’s diarrhea. Because different germs can cause similar symptoms, it is important to speak with a healthcare provider before starting treatment. [4]

Xifaxan is an antibiotic, so it does not treat viral infections such as the common cold or flu. Taking antibiotics when they are not needed can increase the risk of developing an infection that resists antibiotic treatment. Seek medical advice if you are unsure what is causing your symptoms, especially if you have a fever, bloody diarrhea, severe abdominal pain, or symptoms that are not improving. [3]

Xifaxan & Typhoid Vaccine

Rifaximin may make live bacterial vaccines, including the typhoid vaccine, less effective. Tell your doctor or pharmacist that you are taking Xifaxan before receiving any vaccine so they can advise you on the safest timing. [5]

Typhoid fever is an infection caused by Salmonella typhi. It usually spreads through contaminated food or water and is more common in places with limited access to safe drinking water and proper sanitation. Travelers visiting destinations with a higher risk of typhoid may be advised to receive a typhoid vaccine before their trip. [6]

Symptoms of typhoid may include:

• Prolonged high fever
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Nausea
• Abdominal pain
• Constipation or diarrhea
• Rash in some cases [6]

Take Your Whole Dosage

Take Xifaxan for the full duration prescribed, even if you start feeling better. Skipping doses or stopping treatment too early may leave the bacteria partially treated and increase the risk of antibiotic resistance. If your traveler’s diarrhea does not improve within 24 to 48 hours, worsens, or is accompanied by a fever or bloody stool, contact your doctor. [3]

The recommended dosage depends on the condition being treated:

• Traveler’s diarrhea: 200 mg three times a day for three days in adults and children ages 12 and older
• IBS-D: 550 mg three times a day for 14 days in adults [1]

Xifaxan can be taken with or without food. Store it at room temperature in its original, tightly closed container and keep it away from excess heat and moisture. Keep all medications out of the sight and reach of children. For more information, read our guide on how to take Xifaxan properly. Regardless of why you take Xifaxan, you can find affordable prices on this medication through Canadian Med Center.

FAQ: How do I know if Xifaxan is the right treatment for my symptoms?

Xifaxan may be the right treatment if your doctor prescribed it for a condition it is approved to treat, such as traveler’s diarrhea caused by certain noninvasive strains of E. coli or IBS-D. Xifaxan will not work for viral illnesses such as colds or the flu. Since traveler’s diarrhea can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites, your symptoms and medical history matter before treatment begins.

Before taking Xifaxan, make sure your doctor knows if you have fever, bloody diarrhea, severe abdominal pain, or symptoms that are not improving. You should also tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are planning to receive the typhoid vaccine, as Xifaxan may reduce the effectiveness of live bacterial vaccines. Once treatment begins, take the full course exactly as prescribed, even if you start to feel better.

To use Xifaxan safely:

1. Confirm that Xifaxan is being used for the correct condition.
2. Do not use Xifaxan for colds, flu, or other viral illnesses.
3. Tell your doctor if you have fever, bloody stool, severe stomach pain, or worsening symptoms.
4. Mention any upcoming vaccines, such as the typhoid vaccine.
5. Take Xifaxan with or without food as directed.
6. Finish the full course, even if your symptoms improve.

The content in this article is intended for informational purposes only. This website does not provide medical advice. In all circumstances, you should always seek the advice of your physician and/or other qualified health professionals(s) for drug, medical condition, or treatment advice. The content provided on this website is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.