Xifaxan Medication - Uses & Side Effects

Xifaxan is an antibiotic prescribed to treat traveler's diarrhea, a bacterial infection in the intestines caused by Escherichia coli (also called E. coli). Traveler's diarrhea is the result of eating contaminated food or drinking untreated water, usually in foreign countries.

Xifaxan Dosage

• The usual recommended dose is one 200-milligram tablet taken 3 times a day for 3 days.
• Adults and children 12 years of age and older—200 milligrams taken three times a day for 3 days.
• Children under 12 years of age—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.

Uses of Xifaxan

• Xifaxan is a non-systemic (does not get into bloodstream) antibiotic used to treat diarrhea caused by eating food or drinking fluids that have been contaminated with germs called bacteria.
• Xifaxan may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

Side Effects of Xifaxan

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe to continue using Xifaxan.Side effects may include:

• Abdominal pain
• constipation
• fever or high body temperature
• gas
• headache
• nausea
• painful or urgent bowel movements
• vomiting

Warnings and precautions before taking Xifaxan:

• Xifaxan is only useful in cases of diarrhea that are caused by E. coli. If your symptoms get worse, if you develop new symptoms such as a fever or bloody diarrhea, or if you do not get better within 1 to 2 days, call your doctor right away. You will probably need to stop taking Xifaxan and start a different treatment.
• The use of antibiotics may promote the overgrowth of nonsusceptible organisms. Should superinfection occur during therapy, appropriate measures should be taken.
• A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction may include: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing.
• This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.

Drug Interaction :- At this time, there are no documented drug interactions with Xifaxan. However, you should always tell the doctor about any medicines you take, including over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Your healthcare professionals (e.g., doctor or pharmacist) may already be aware of any possible drug interactions and may be monitoring you for it. Do not start, stop or change the dosage of any medicine before checking with them first.Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and nonprescription/herbal products you may use, especially of: live vaccines.

Overdose

• Seek emergency medical attention if an overdose is suspected.
• Symptoms of an Xifaxan overdose are unknown but may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal discomfort.