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What is 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.
When
you swallow Xifaxan, the drug passes into and remains almost
entirely, in your gut and gastrointestinal tract. This differs
from how other antibiotics work. Other antibiotics typically
pass from the gastrointestinal tract into the bloodstream.
Because Xifaxan remains in the gastrointestinal tract, it
is not suitable for treating other infections such as chest,
sinus, or lung infections caused by bacteria.
Some
forms or diarrhea may be caused by viruses and not bacteria.
Xifaxan, like all antibiotics, does not kill viruses. You
should contact your doctor or healthcare provider if you think
your condition is getting worse or not improving after 24
to 48 hours (1 to 2 days) while taking Xifaxan.
Xifaxan
may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this
medication guide.
General medical information about Xifaxan
Take all of the Xifaxan that has been prescribed
for you even if you begin to feel better. Your symptoms
may start to improve before the infection is completely
treated.
You should not take Xifaxan if you have
a fever or have blood in your stool. Talk to your doctor
if you have these symptoms.
Some forms or diarrhea
may be caused by viruses and not bacteria. Xifaxan, like
all antibiotics, does not kill viruses. You should contact
your doctor or healthcare provider if you think your condition
is getting worse or not improving after 24 to 48 hours (1
to 2 days) while taking Xifaxan.
What you should find out before taking
Xifaxan
Before taking Xifaxan, tell your doctor if you have:
- had an allergic reaction to any of the group of
antibiotics known as rifamycins such as rifampin (Rifadin,
Rimactane) or rifabutin (Mycobutin).
- a fever;
-
blood in your stool; or
- a form or diarrhea known
as dysentery.
Xifaxan is in the FDA pregnancy category
C. This means that it is not known whether it will harm
an unborn baby. Do not take this medication without first
talking to your doctor if you are pregnant.
It is
not known whether Xifaxan passes into breast milk. Do not
take this medication without first talking to your doctor
if you are breast-feeding a baby.
How should take Xifaxan Take Xifaxan exactly as directed by your doctor.
If you do not understand the instructions, ask your pharmacist,
nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.
Xifaxan
tablets can be taken with or without food.
You should
not take Xifaxan if you have a fever or have blood in your
stool. Talk to your doctor if you have these symptoms.
Take all of the Xifaxan that has been prescribed for you
even if you begin to feel better. Your symptoms may start
to improve before the infection is completely treated.
Store this medication at room temperature away from moisture
and heat.
If you miss a dose: Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However,
if it is almost time for the next regularly scheduled dose,
skip the missed dose and take the next one as directed.
Do not take a double dose of this medication unless otherwise
directed by your doctor.
What happens if you 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.
Avoid while taking Xifaxan Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or
performing other hazardous activities. Xifaxan may cause
dizziness. If you experience dizziness, avoid these activities.
Possible side effects of Xifaxan No serious side effects are expected from Xifaxan
therapy. Stop taking Xifaxan and seek emergency medical
attention if you experience an allergic reaction (difficulty
breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips,
tongue, or face; or hives).
Other, less serious side
effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take Xifaxan
and talk to your doctor if you experience
- dizziness
or headache;
- flatulence (gas);
- stomach
pain;
- sensations of needing to empty the bowel;
- urgent bowel movements;
- constipation;
- fever;
- rash; or
- nausea or vomiting.
Side effects other than those listed here may also
occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems
unusual or that is especially bothersome.
What other drugs will affect Xifaxan
There
are no known interactions between Xifaxan and other medicines,
although the possibility exists. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist
before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines.
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