Rifaximin

Rifaximin is a prescription oral antibiotic belonging to the rifamycin class. It works locally in the gastrointestinal tract by inhibiting bacterial RNA synthesis. Rifaximin has minimal systemic absorption, which helps reduce the risk of widespread side effects.

Rifaximin is available in 200 mg and 550 mg tablet strengths. At present, we provide the 550 mg strength only, dispensed with a valid prescription. Because proper diagnosis and dosing are essential, Rifaximin should only be used under the supervision of a licensed healthcare provider.

Rifaximin is FDA-approved for the treatment of:

• Traveler’s diarrhea caused by noninvasive strains of Escherichia coli
• IBS-D (Irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea) in adults
• Reduction in the risk of overt hepatic encephalopathy recurrence in adults with liver disease

Rifaximin 550 mg tablets have specific precautions, warnings, and contraindications that you should be aware of before starting your treatment:

What to Avoid When Taking Rifaximin?

• Do not use for viral infections (like cold or flu).
• Avoid exceeding the prescribed duration; taking it longer than directed can increase side effect risk.
• Do not share your medication with anyone else.
• Avoid other antibiotics or medications without consulting your doctor.

Who Cannot Take Rifaximin 550 mg Tablets?

• Rifaximin should not be used by people who:
  • Have a known hypersensitivity (allergy) to rifaximin, rifamycin antimicrobial agents, or any component of the medicine.
  • Have diarrhea with blood in the stool or fever, or diarrhea caused by pathogens other than Escherichia coli, the drug may not be effective.
  • Have Clostridioides difficile‑associated diarrhea (CDAD), as ongoing antibiotics not directed against C. difficile may worsen the condition.
• Children: Safety and effectiveness have not been established in patients <12 years for traveler’s diarrhea, and <18 years for IBS-D and hepatic encephalopathy.

What Are the Contraindications for Rifaximin?

Rifaximin should not be used in the following situations:

• Known hypersensitivity to rifaximin, rifamycin antibiotics, or any ingredient in the tablets.
• Patients with diarrhea complicated by blood in the stool or fever where rifaximin is unlikely to be effective.
• Clostridioides difficile‑associated diarrhea (CDAD): Rifaximin is not appropriate for the treatment of systemic infections, and continued use may worsen C. difficile colitis.

While taking Rifaximin, watch for and report the following to your healthcare provider:

• Signs of worsening diarrhea, especially persistent, bloody, or severe diarrhea.
• Symptoms of allergic reactions, such as rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing.
• Liver function may be affected if you have liver disease or develop symptoms like jaundice.
• If you are on warfarin, your doctor may monitor your INR/prothrombin time to adjust the dose.
• Overall treatment effectiveness improvement in your condition as prescribed by your healthcare provider.

Rifaximin (Xifaxan) is an antibiotic that works in the gut. It inhibits bacterial RNA synthesis by binding to the beta subunit of DNA-dependent RNA polymerase, preventing the production of essential proteins needed for growth. Because rifaximin is minimally absorbed, it acts primarily in the intestines, targeting intestinal infections while limiting effects on the rest of the body.

Rifaximin dosage depends on the indication, patient age, and medical history. Always follow your doctor’s prescribed dosage regimen.

• Take the missed tablet as soon as you remember.
• If it is almost time for your next one, skip the missed dose.
• Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one.
• Continue taking the rest of your doses as prescribed.
• If you frequently miss doses or are unsure, contact your doctor or pharmacist for guidance.

Taking too many Rifaximin tablets may cause mild stomach or bowel problems, such as:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Stomach pain or cramping
• Diarrhea
• Rifaximin overdose is uncommon because very little of the drug enters the bloodstream.

If you suspect an overdose, contact your doctor, pharmacist, or poison control center immediately.

Rifaximin usually causes mild, temporary side effects, but if you experience any serious or unusual symptoms, contact your doctor. This list is not complete, so always seek professional advice for any concerns.

If you are considering using Rifaximin, follow these administration guidelines:

• Take Rifaximin tablets exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
• Swallow the tablets whole with water.
• Do not crush, split, or chew Rifaximin tablets unless your doctor advises.
• You can take it with or without food.
• Take it at the same time each day to keep the medicine working effectively.
• Finish the full course, even if you start feeling better.
• Store the tablets at room temperature (20-25°C/68-77°F), away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
• Tell your doctor if you are taking other medicines, have liver disease, or are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Rifaximin is a gut-targeted antibiotic with low systemic absorption. Here’s how it compares with other common medications for gastrointestinal conditions in terms of effectiveness, risks, and benefits.

Rifaximin (Xifaxan) has minimal systemic absorption, so clinically significant drug interactions are rare. Unlike many antibiotics, rifaximin does not strongly interact with CYP enzymes, so it has far fewer drug-to-drug interactions than systemic antibiotics. However, certain Rifaximin interactions still require monitoring or caution:

The main alternatives to Rifaximin for gastrointestinal conditions include:

• Mycifradin (Neomycin)
• Flagyl (Metronidazole)
• Cipro (Ciprofloxacin)
• Imodium (Loperamide)

The choice depends on the type of infection, severity, and patient-specific factors. Always consult a healthcare professional before switching or combining treatments.

Rifaximin can be expensive in the U.S., especially when insurance doesn’t cover it. Many patients delay treatment due to high costs. Polar Bear Meds helps make Rifaximin more affordable without compromising quality.

By partnering with licensed Canadian pharmacies, we offer Rifaximin at prices often up to 80% lower than U.S. pharmacies. New customers might save even more by using the coupon code “WELCOMEPB10” for an extra 10% off.

• No insurance required
• No hidden fees
• Fast delivery: Usually orders arrive within 3-5 business days via Xpress Post

With Polar Bear Meds, getting the Rifaximin 550 mg tablets you need is simple, reliable, and cost-effective.

• https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2017/021361s023lbl.pdf
• https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/rifaximin-oral-route/description/drg-20065817
• https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a604027.html
• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK562329/
• https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/Rifaximin