Dosage Details for Xifaxan: Forms, Strengths, Administration, and Additional Information
Xifaxan, a brand-name antibiotic, is commonly prescribed for various conditions such as traveler's diarrhea, hepatic encephalopathy, and irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea (IBS-D). However, it's essential to note that the dosage and duration can vary depending on the specific condition and the individual patient.
For traveler's diarrhea, the typical dosage for adults is 200 mg taken three times daily for 3 days. In contrast, for hepatic encephalopathy, the standard dosage for adults is 550 mg taken twice daily.
However, when it comes to small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO), Xifaxan may be prescribed off-label. The typical dosage for treating SIBO is 550 mg taken three times daily for a duration of 10 to 14 days. This regimen is designed to reduce bacterial overgrowth in the small intestine while minimizing systemic absorption and side effects.
It's crucial to remember that the dosage for SIBO is not standardized and should be determined by a healthcare provider.
Xifaxan comes as an oral tablet in two strengths: 200 mg and 550 mg. The typical dosage for IBS-D in adults is 550 mg taken three times per day for 14 days.
To ensure safe and effective use, always follow the dosage that your doctor prescribes. If you have questions about the dosage that's best for you, talk with your doctor or pharmacist.
It's important to note that self-medication can lead to antibiotic resistance and potential drug interactions. Therefore, Xifaxan should only be taken under a healthcare provider’s prescription.
In case of missed doses or taking more than the recommended amount, consult your doctor immediately or contact America's Poison Centers at 800-222-1222 or use its online tool.
Here's a summary of the key points:
| Condition | Typical Dose | Frequency | Duration | |---------------------------|----------------------|------------------|------------------| | SIBO (off-label use) | 550 mg | Three times daily | 10–14 days | | Traveler's diarrhea | 200 mg | Three times daily | 3 days | | Hepatic encephalopathy | 550 mg | Twice daily | As prescribed |
[1] UpToDate. (2021). Rifaximin for treatment of small intestinal bacterial overgrowth. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/rifaximin-for-treatment-of-small-intestinal-bacterial-overgrowth [2] Mayo Clinic. (2021). Xifaxan. https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/xifaxan-oral-tablet/description/drg-20073259 [3] Drugs.com. (2021). Rifaximin. https://www.drugs.com/mtm/rifaximin.html [4] FDA. (2019). FDA approves Xifaxan for prevention of recurrent hepatic encephalopathy. https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-approves-xifaxan-prevention-recurrent-hepatic-encephalopathy [5] American Journal of Gastroenterology. (2019). Rifaximin for the treatment of small intestinal bacterial overgrowth: a systematic review and meta-analysis. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6523149/
- Xifaxan, when used off-label for small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO), can contribute significantly to digestive health and wellness by reducing bacterial overgrowth in the small intestine.
- The science behind therapies and treatments for digestive health, like Xifaxan, underscores the importance of consulting healthcare providers for personalized dosage recommendations to ensure effective and safe use.
