ImportantThis page is general information, not a prescription. Don't start, stop, or change a medicine without talking to your provider or pharmacist.
Overview
Very little is absorbed into the body.
What it's used for
- Irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea
- Traveler's diarrhea (not with fever or bloody stool)
- Preventing hepatic encephalopathy in liver disease
How to take it
- Take it with or without food for the full course.
Your dose depends on your health and other medicines. Always follow your prescription label, and ask your pharmacist if anything is unclear.
Side effects
Common side effects
- Nausea
- Swelling in the legs (liver disease)
- Dizziness
Call your provider todaySevere watery or bloody diarrhea, even weeks after finishing (possible C. diff infection)
Call 911Swelling of the face, lips, or throat, hives, or trouble breathing
Warnings
- Not for diarrhea with fever or blood in the stool.
Other medicines, foods, and alcohol
- Cyclosporine raises its level.
Tell your provider and pharmacist about every medicine, vitamin, and supplement you take.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Talk with your provider.
Missed doses, overdose, and storage
If you miss a dose
Take it as soon as you remember, unless it's almost time for your next dose. Then skip the missed dose. Don't take two doses at once.
If someone takes too much
Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 or get help online at poison.org. Call 911 if the person collapses, has a seizure, has trouble breathing, or can't be woken.
Storing it
Store at room temperature, away from heat and moisture (not in the bathroom), and out of reach of children and pets.
Conditions it's used for
Sources
- DailyMed: FDA drug label for Rifaximin (U.S. National Library of Medicine)
- MedlinePlus: Drugs, herbs, and supplements
- FDA: Drugs@FDA
Last updated 2026-11-13.