Rifaximin
Rifaximin is a non-absorbable antibiotic that acts locally in the gastrointestinal tract to treat bacterial infections, primarily used for traveler's diarrhea and reduction of hepatic encephalopathy.
Rifaximin is a gut-selective antibiotic used to treat traveler's diarrhea, hepatic encephalopathy, and IBS-D symptoms.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- A07AA11
- RxNorm
- 35619
- Generic
- Rifaximin
- Class
- atc-a07
- Brands
- XIFAXAN
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- tablet
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Traveler's diarrhea caused by noninvasive strains of E. coli, reduction of risk of hepatic encephalopathy recurrence in patients with advanced liver disease, and irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea (IBS-D).
Rifaximin binds to bacterial DNA-dependent RNA polymerase, inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis. Due to minimal systemic absorption, it acts primarily within the gastrointestinal tract.
Generally well-tolerated with minimal systemic absorption. Should not be used in patients with intestinal obstruction or perforation. May increase risk of C. difficile colitis. Effectiveness varies by indication; not effective against infections involving the colon or systemic bacterial infections.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed July 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy