Rifaximin is a medication used to treat bacterial infections in the gastrointestinal tract, specifically in the small intestine. It is a type of antibiotic that belongs to the rifamycin class of drugs.
Rifaximin is commonly used to treat conditions such as traveler's diarrhea, irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea (IBS-D), and small intestine bacterial overgrowth (SIBO). It works by preventing the growth and replication of certain types of bacteria in the gut.
Rifaximin is typically taken orally in tablet form. The dosage and duration of treatment will depend on the specific medical condition being treated.
Side effects of rifaximin may include nausea, abdominal pain, and headache. Rare but serious side effects may include liver problems or an allergic reaction.
Rifaximin may interact with other medications, so it's important to inform your healthcare provider of any other medications you are taking before starting treatment with rifaximin. It should also be used with caution in patients with certain medical conditions, such as liver disease.