What is a Generic Drug?
A generic drug is a copy of the brand-name drug with the same dosage, safety, strength, quality, consumption method, performance, and intended use. Before generics become available on the market, the generic company must prove it has the same active ingredients as the brand-name drug and works in the same way and in the same amount of time in the body.
The only differences between generics and their brand-name counterparts is that generics are less expensive and may look slightly different (eg. different shape or color), as trademarks laws prevent a generic from looking exactly like the brand-name drug.
Generics are less expensive because generic manufacturers don't have to invest large sums of money to develop a drug. When the brand-name patent expires, generic companies can manufacture a copy of the brand-name and sell it at a substantial discount.
Xifaxan (Rifaximin)
Also Known as Zaxine,Coldir
Prescription Required
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Product Details
Description
Chemical Name: RIFAXIMIN (rif-AX-i-min)
Xifaxan (Rifaximin) is a prescription antibiotic used to treat several different conditions. It can be used for the following:
- Reduction of the occurrence of hepatic encephalopathy
- Treatment of travelers' diarrhea
- Treatment of irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea (IBS-D)
Xifaxan is an antibacterial medication that works by binding to bacterial DNA-dependent RNA polymerase, preventing bacteria from replicating their DNA and preventing bacterial growth.Xifaxan is thought to reduce the occurrence of hepatic encephalopathy by inhibiting the growth of ammonia-producing bacteria.
Xifaxan works in travelers' diarrhea and IBS-D by preventing the growth of certain harmful bacteria.
Fact Table
Formula
C43H51N3O11
License
US FDA
Bioavailability
Less than 4%
Legal status
Rx-Only
Chemical Name
Rifaximin
Elimination half-life
6 hours
Dosage (Strength)
200mg, 550mg
Pregnancy
Not Recommended
Brands
Xifaxan
Protein binding
67.5%
PubChem CID
6436173
MedlinePlus
a604027
ChEBI
75246
ATC code
A07AA11
DrugBank
DB01220
KEGG
D02554
Routes of administration
By mouth (tablets)
Directions
Xifaxan has different directions based on the condition being treated. Take it exactly as prescribed by your physician. That standard directions are:
- Hepatic encephalopathy: Take one Xifaxan 550 mg tablet by mouth twice daily.
- Travelers' diarrhea: Take one Xifaxan 200 mg tablet by mouth three times daily for three days.
- IBS-D: Take one Xifaxan 550 mg tablet three times daily for 14 days. This regimen may be repeated up to two times as prescribed by the physician.
Ingredients
The active ingredient and name of the Xifaxan generic is rifaximin.
The medication is available as Xifaxan 200 mg tablets and Xifaxan 550 mg tablets.
Cautions
If taking Xifaxan for travelers' diarrhea, it may not be effective for pathogens other than Escherichia coli (E. coli). If diarrhea does not improve within 24 to 48 hours after starting Xifaxan, stop taking the medication and speak with your doctor about different antibiotic options.
Do not use Xifaxan to treat diarrhea accompanied by fever or blood in the stool, as this may be a sign of Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea.
If you have a history of liver damage or liver failure, speak with your doctor before starting Xifaxan.
Xifaxan has the potential for important drug-drug interactions, especially with medications that are used to prevent organ transplant rejections. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist about your other medications before starting Xifaxan.
Side Effects
Some of the most common side effects of Xifaxan include:
- Anorexia
- Arthralgia
- Decreased weight
- Dizziness
- Dysentery
- Dyspnea
- Nasal passage irritation
- Nausea
- Peripheral Edema
- Pruritis
- Pyrexia
- Taste loss
Please speak with your doctor or pharmacist for a complete list of side effects. The side effects experienced may vary based on which condition is being treated and for how long the medication is being taken.References
- Xifaxan [package insert]. Bridgewater, NJ: Valeant Pharmaceuticals; 2017.
Frequently Asked Questions about Xifaxan (Rifaximin)
What is Xifaxan (Rifaximin)?
Xifaxan (rifaximin) targets gut bacterial infections like E. coli in travelers' diarrhea and diarrhea-predominant IBS in adults. It also reduces cognitive decline risk in adults with liver failure.
What to avoid when taking Xifaxan?
While on Xifaxan, avoid consuming alcohol, grapefruit, grapefruit juice, and other foods or drinks that may worsen your symptoms. Always follow your doctor’s advice regarding dietary restrictions.
Does Xifaxan have side effects?
Common side effects of Xifaxan include nausea, bloating, and headache. However, not everyone experiences these side effects. If you notice any unusual symptoms, consult your doctor.
Who should not take Xifaxan?
Avoid Xifaxan if allergic to rifaximin or similar drugs. Notify your doctor of severe liver disease, diarrhea with fever, or watery/bloody diarrhea before starting Xifaxan. Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should consult their healthcare provider.
How long can you stay on Xifaxan?
Xifaxan treatment lasts 3 days for travelers’ diarrhea and 2 weeks for IBS, so finish all doses to avoid antibiotic resistance, even if you feel better early.
How long does Xifaxan stay in your system?
Xifaxan has a relatively short half-life, which means it clears from your system within a few hours to a day after the last dose. However, individual variations exist.
Can I drink alcohol with Xifaxan?
It’s best to avoid alcohol while taking Xifaxan. Alcohol may interact with the drug and affect its effectiveness.
Does Xifaxan cause fatigue?
Fatigue is a common side effect of Xifaxan. If you experience unusual tiredness, consult your doctor.
What drugs interact with Xifaxan?
Xifaxan has minimal interactions with other medications. However, always inform your doctor about all the drugs you’re taking, including over the counter and herbal supplements.
Why does Xifaxan cause weight gain?
No, Xifaxan does not cause weight gain.
IMPORTANT NOTE: The above information is intended to increase awareness of health information and does not suggest treatment or diagnosis. This information is not a substitute for individual medical attention and should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. See your health care professional for medical advice and treatment.Product Code : 9991
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