Xifaxan is a prescription oral antibiotic that contains the active ingredient rifaximin. It works primarily in the gut and is minimally absorbed into the bloodstream.

Doctors prescribe Xifaxan for:

• Traveler’s diarrhea caused by noninvasive Escherichia coli in patients 12 years and older
• Preventing future episodes of overt hepatic encephalopathy in adults
• Irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea (IBS-D) in adults

Xifaxan is not intended for viral infections such as the flu or common cold. It also should not be used for diarrhea accompanied by fever or bloody stools. Taking antibiotics when they are not needed may increase the risk of antibiotic resistance.

Some patients may also see the name Zaxine, which is a Canadian brand of rifaximin. Zaxine contains the same active ingredient as Xifaxan and generic rifaximin.

Is Rifaximin Available in Canada?

Yes, rifaximin is available in Canada.

In Canada, generic rifaximin is approved and widely available. It contains the same active ingredient as brand-name Xifaxan and is dispensed at a significantly lower price.

In the United States, generic rifaximin is not widely available at retail pharmacies due to ongoing patent protections. Based on current timelines, broader U.S. availability is not expected until 2029.

Xifaxan pricing varies significantly depending on strength, quantity, brand versus generic, and country of purchase. 

Xifaxan Price in Canada (Brand Name and Generic)

Xifaxan 200 mg Price in Canada (Brand and Generic Rifaximin)

Xifaxan 550 mg Price in Canada (Brand and Generic Rifaximin)

Xifaxan Price in Canada vs U.S. Retail Cost

For patients paying cash, the difference between U.S. retail and Canadian generic pricing is substantial, particularly for higher quantities.

Xifaxan remains under patent protection in the U.S., which limits generic competition. Without multiple manufacturers lowering prices, brand-name costs remain high.

Other factors that influence price include:

• Dose prescribed, such as 200 mg versus 550 mg
• Quantity dispensed, with higher quantities lowering the price per tablet
• Insurance coverage and copay structure
• Pharmacy pricing differences
• Brand versus generic availability

If you want a more detailed breakdown of why Xifaxan remains expensive in the U.S., including insurance comparisons and annual cost estimates, read our Xifaxan Price Guide: How to Get the Best Deals on Your Medication. 

How to Lower the Cost of Xifaxan or Rifaximin

Patients commonly reduce costs by:

• Choosing generic rifaximin when available
• Purchasing larger quantities to reduce per tablet cost
• Comparing Canadian pharmacy pricing with U.S. retail pricing
• Reviewing insurance coverage and copay tiers
• Using manufacturer savings programs when eligible
• How to Buy Xifaxan or Rifaximin Online from Canada

American patients with a valid prescription can order Xifaxan or generic rifaximin by following these steps:

• Go to the Canadian Med Center website and type “Xifaxan” or “rifaximin” into the search bar to locate the medication.
• Choose the strength and quantity your doctor prescribed, then select Add to Cart and proceed to checkout.
• Log in to your account or register for a new account if you do not already have one. If you prefer to place your order by phone, call 1-877-205-1510.
• Provide a valid prescription during checkout or ask the pharmacy to reach out to your doctor or current pharmacy to obtain it for you.
• Double-check all order information before finalizing and submitting your purchase.
• Once the prescription is verified and approved, the medication will be shipped straight to your home.

How to take Xifaxan

• Traveler’s diarrhea: 200 mg three times daily for 3 days

• Hepatic encephalopathy: 550 mg twice daily

• IBS-D: 550 mg three times daily for 14 days. If symptoms return, the same course may be repeated up to two additional times.

Take Xifaxan exactly as prescribed. It may be taken with or without food. Complete the full course of treatment even if symptoms improve early.

Xifaxan side effects

Side effects of Xifaxan can vary depending on the condition being treated.

• For traveler’s diarrhea, the most frequently reported side effect is headache.

• For hepatic encephalopathy, commonly reported side effects include peripheral swelling in the arms or legs, nausea, constipation, dizziness, tiredness, urinary tract infection, difficulty sleeping, anemia, itching, and fluid buildup in the abdomen.

• For irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea (IBS-D), the most commonly reported side effects are nausea and elevated liver enzymes, including increased ALT levels on blood tests.

Seek medical attention right away if you experience symptoms of a serious reaction, including:

• Signs of an allergic reaction, such as rash, hives, itching, swelling of the face or throat, difficulty breathing or swallowing, chest tightness, or unusual hoarseness
• Symptoms of a severe skin reaction, including red or blistering skin, peeling, sores in the mouth or eyes, or eye irritation
• New or worsening swelling in the arms, legs, or abdomen
• Shortness of breath
• Fever
• Depression
• Severe, ongoing, or worsening diarrhea

Xifaxan cautions

Before taking Xifaxan, review the following safety information with your healthcare provider:

• Do not use Xifaxan if you have ever had an allergic reaction to rifaximin, other rifamycin antibiotics, or any of the ingredients in this medication.

• If you are taking warfarin, your doctor may need to check your INR and prothrombin time more frequently. A dosage adjustment may be necessary to keep your blood levels within the appropriate range.

• Provide a complete list of all prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal supplements you are currently using.

• Share your full medical history, including any ongoing or past health conditions.

• Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. Xifaxan should only be used during pregnancy if clearly necessary and under medical supervision.

• Be aware that Xifaxan may interfere with live bacterial vaccines, such as the typhoid vaccine, and may reduce their effectiveness.

Can I buy Xifaxan online from a Canadian pharmacy?

Yes, Xifaxan and rifaximin can be purchased online through Canadian pharmacies with a valid prescription. When ordering online, it is important to use a reputable pharmacy that requires a prescription and verifies your order before dispensing medication.

American patients ordering from Canada should look for pharmacies that are associated with the Canadian International Pharmacy Association (CIPA). This indicates that the pharmacy meets strict safety standards and dispenses medications from approved sources.

Always confirm the pharmacy’s credentials before placing an order and avoid websites that do not require a prescription.

Can I buy rifaximin in Canada?

Yes. In Canada, both brand-name Xifaxan and generic rifaximin are available with a prescription. Many patients prefer Canadian pricing due to lower per tablet costs.

Is rifaximin available over the counter in Canada?

No. Xifaxan and rifaximin are prescription medications in both the United States and Canada.

How much does Xifaxan cost?

The cost of Xifaxan depends on strength, quantity, brand versus generic, and where you purchase it.

In the United States, brand-name Xifaxan can be extremely expensive at retail pharmacies, especially the 550 mg strength. In Canada, both brand and generic rifaximin are available at significantly lower prices. 

Xifaxan Price in Canada vs U.S. Retail (Per Tablet Cost)

^{U.S. retail prices reflect typical cash prices and can vary depending on the pharmacy and location.}

What is the cost of rifaximin in Canada?

Rifaximin in Canada may cost:

• 200 mg: as low as $0.81 per tablet when purchasing larger quantities

• 550 mg: as low as $1.65 per tablet when ordering higher quantities

The cost of rifaximin in Canada depends on the strength and quantity prescribed, but it is typically much lower than U.S. retail pricing for brand-name Xifaxan. Total cost will vary based on the number of tablets ordered. Larger quantities often reduce the price per tablet.

Is there a generic version of Xifaxan in Canada?

Yes. The generic version of Xifaxan is rifaximin. Generic rifaximin contains the same active ingredient and works the same way in the body. In Canada, generic rifaximin is available with a prescription. In the United States, retail availability of generic rifaximin is currently limited due to patent protections. 

What is Zaxine? 

Zaxine is a Canadian brand of rifaximin. It contains the same active ingredient as Xifaxan and generic rifaximin.

Do I need a Xifaxan coupon?

You do not need a coupon to access lower pricing when ordering from Canadian Med Center. Canadian pharmacy pricing is typically lower than U.S. retail cash prices, so additional discount codes are not necessary.

Why is Xifaxan prescribed?

Xifaxan is prescribed to treat certain conditions caused by bacteria in the intestines. It is approved for traveler’s diarrhea caused by noninvasive E. coli, prevention of recurrent hepatic encephalopathy in adults, and irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea (IBS-D) in adults. Xifaxan works locally in the gut and is minimally absorbed into the bloodstream.

How long does it take for Xifaxan to work?

Some patients may notice symptom improvement within a few days, depending on the condition being treated. However, you should take Xifaxan for the full prescribed duration, even if symptoms improve early. Stopping treatment too soon may reduce effectiveness and increase the risk of symptoms returning.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Xifaxan?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take two doses at the same time to make up for a missed dose.

How should Xifaxan be stored?

Store Xifaxan at room temperature in its original container, tightly closed and out of reach of children. Keep it away from excess heat and moisture and avoid storing it in the bathroom.