Description
What is Xifaxan/Lormyx/Hepazec?
Xifaxan, also known as Lormyx or Hepazec, is an antibiotic containing rifaximin. It is used to treat bacterial infections in the digestive system caused by Escherichia coli, a common bacterium found in the intestines. Although these bacteria are usually harmless, they can cause infections when they are introduced through contaminated food or water.
Indications for Use
Xifaxan/Lormyx/Hepazec is typically prescribed for the following conditions:
- Traveler’s Diarrhea (TD): A common digestive issue resulting from consuming contaminated food or water while traveling.
- Chronic Liver Disease: To address brain function damage related to liver dysfunction.
- Non-Complicated Diverticular Disease: A condition involving inflammation or infection of small pouches in the digestive tract.
- Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO): Xifaxan is the primary antibiotic used for SIBO, showing high effectiveness in treating this condition by eradicating various bacterial strains.
Dosage
- Hepazec: 550 mg
- Lormyx: 200 mg
Reported Side Effects
Common side effects include:
- Black tarry stools
- Dizziness
- Muscle spasms
- Rapid breathing
- Shortness of breath
- Inability to sleep
Less common but serious side effects may include:
- Blood in the urine
- Bloody nose
- Chest pain
- Fainting
- Strange noises in the ears
- Weakness
- Ulcers
- Sores
- Sunken eyes
Consult Your Doctor
If you experience any of these side effects or have concerns about your treatment, consult your healthcare provider promptly for guidance and support.
About this medication
RIFAXIMIN/XIFAXAN (ri FAX i men) treats diarrhea caused by bacteria. It may also be used to treat irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) with diarrhea. It can be used to prevent hepatic encephalopathy, a condition where the liver does not clear toxins from the body. It works by killing or preventing the growth of bacteria in your intestines that make toxins. It belongs to a group of medications called antibiotics. It will not treat colds, the flu, or infections caused by viruses.
How should you use this medication?
Take this medication by mouth with water. Take it as directed on the prescription label at the same time every day. You can take it with or without food. If it upsets your stomach, take it with food. Take all of this medication unless your care team tells you to stop it early. Keep taking it even if you think you are better. Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. Special care may be needed.
What are the possible side effects of this medicine?
Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:
- Allergic reactions–skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
- Severe diarrhea, fever
- Unusual vaginal discharge, itching, or odor Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):
- Change in taste
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Loss of appetite with weight loss
- Nausea
- Swelling of the ankles, hands, or feet
What may interact with this medicine?
Our pharmacists will check to see if this medication will cause any interactions with the information in your profile.
This medication may interact with the following:
- Cyclosporine
- Estrogen or progestin hormones
- Midazolam
- Verapamil
- Warfarin
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