Research shows that Xifaxan can relieve irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) symptoms. The active ingredient of the medication is an antibiotic called rifaximin which has been shown to improve IBS symptoms within two weeks with its effects lasting for over two months after the therapy ends.
IBS is classified as a chronic gastrointestinal disease without an identified cause with recurring symptoms that are usually exacerbated by too much stress. Unfortunately, the standard treatments such as changes in diet, counseling, and common medications in use for the treatment of the condition do not improve symptoms in all patients.
Data from the clinical studies conducted at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in California concluded that Xifaxan can effectively improve almost all symptoms associated with irritable bowel syndrome. The clinical studies involved the participation of diarrhea-predominant IBS without constipation who also typically experience stomach pain, swelling, and bowel movement irregularities.
Xifaxan is usually taken three times daily at a 550-mg dose for two weeks. This new antibiotic therapy is especially effective in relieving diarrhea and bloating. The patients who participated in the clinical studies reported at least an 80% improvement in their symptoms. The FDA has so far only approved the medication for the treatment of diarrhea-predominant IBS, traveler’s diarrhea, and a neurological condition known as hepatic encephalopathy.
Even though the treatment has been proven to be effective in individuals with diarrhea, stomach pain, frequent urges to have a bowel movement and bloating, there is also a chance that Xifaxan may also improve constipation. Research into the drug’s efficacy in patients with constipation-predominant IBS is currently underway.
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Posted on May 5, 2023