USES: This medication is used to treat diarrhea caused by the common bacteria known as E. coli ("traveler's diarrhea"). Rifaximin should not be used if you have a fever or bloody diarrhea. It works by stopping the growth of bacteria. This antibiotic treats only bacterial infections. It will not work for viral infections (such as common cold, flu). Using any antibiotic when it is not needed can cause it to not work for future infections. Rifaximin is also used to treat irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea. It is also used to prevent a brain problem caused by liver disease (hepatic encephalopathy). It may help you think more clearly.

How to use RIFAXIMIN - ORAL

HOW TO USE: Read the Patient Information Leaflet if available from your pharmacist before you start taking rifaximin and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. To treat traveler's diarrhea, take this medication by mouth with or without food as directed by your doctor, usually 3 times a day (every 8 hours) for 3 days. To treat irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea, take this medication by mouth with or without food as directed by your doctor, usually 3 times a day for 14 days. To prevent hepatic encephalopathy, take this medication by mouth with or without food as directed by your doctor, usually 2 times a day (every 12 hours). For the best effect, take this antibiotic at evenly spaced times. To help you remember, take this medication at the same time(s) every day. For traveler's diarrhea, continue to take this medication until the full prescribed amount is finished, even if symptoms disappear after a few days. Stopping the medication too early may result in a return of the infection. Tell your doctor if you are still having diarrhea after 1 to 2 days, if you have bloody diarrhea, or if you have a fever along with the diarrhea. Tell your doctor if your condition does not improve or if it worsens.