Drug reference
rifaximin
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Drug class
Anti Bacterial (Miscellaneous(Anti Bacterial))
Mechanism of action
Antimicrobial action is a result of binding to the beta-subunit of bacterial DNA-dependent RNA polymerase, resulting in inhibition of transcription, Hepatic encephalopathy: Inhibits growth of enteric ammonia-producing bacteria to indirectly reduce serum ammonia level
Common side effects
- Flatulence
- Constipation
- Headache
- Nausea
- Rectal tenesmus
- Defecation urgency
- Abdominal pain
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to rifamycin antibiotics
Related conditions
Frequently asked questions
What drug class is rifaximin?
rifaximin belongs to: Anti Bacterial.
How does rifaximin work?
Antimicrobial action is a result of binding to the beta-subunit of bacterial DNA-dependent RNA polymerase, resulting in inhibition of transcription, Hepatic encephalopathy: Inhibits growth of enteric ammonia-producing bacteria to indirectly reduce serum ammonia level
What are the common side effects of rifaximin?
Flatulence, Constipation, Headache, Nausea, Rectal tenesmus, Defecation urgency, Abdominal pain
Full monographs, dosing and an interaction checker in the MediHelp app
Open the complete reference, check multi-drug interactions and use dosing tools in the MediHelp app.