How does xifaxan work on a Liver with hepatitis C?
- Asked
- 14 Apr 2012 by nolabels
- Updated
- 18 Apr 2012
- Topics
- xifaxan, hepatitis c, liver
Responses (1)
Xifaxan (rifaximin) is an antibiotic that fights bacterial infection only in the intestines. It is used to treat hepatic encephalopathy.
Hepatic encephalopathy may become a medical emergency. Hospitalization is required.
The first step is to identify and treat any factors that may have caused hepatic encephalopathy.
Gastrointestinal bleeding must be stopped. The intestines must be emptied of blood. Infections, kidney failure, and electrolyte abnormalities (especially potassium) need to be treated.
Life support may be necessary to help with breathing or blood circulation, particularly if the person is in a coma. The brain may swell, which can be life-threatening.
Patients with severe, repeated cases of encephalopathy may be told to reduce protein in the diet to lower ammonia production. However, dietary counseling is important, because too little protein in the diet may cause malnutrition. Critically ill patients may need specially formulated intravenous or tube feedings.
Lactulose may be given to prevent intestinal bacteria from creating ammonia, and as a laxative to remove blood from the intestines. Neomycin may also be used to reduce ammonia production by intestinal bacteria. Rifaximin, a new antibiotic, is also effective in hepatic encephalopathy.
Sedatives, tranquilizers, and any other medications that are broken down by the liver should be avoided if possible. Medications containing ammonium (including certain antacids) should also be avoided. Other medications and treatments may be recommended. They may have varying results.

Further Information
- Xifaxan Information for Consumers
- Xifaxan Information for Healthcare Professionals (includes dosage details)
- Side Effects of Xifaxan (detailed)
Search for questions
Still looking for answers? Try searching for what you seek or ask your own question.
Similar Questions
Will 10mg of lisinopril daily hurt my liver?
Posted 8 Nov 2015 • 1 answer
I have hepatitis c how much time do I have left to live. I am stage 3 cirrhosis of the liver?
Posted 28 Oct 2016 • 3 answers
Liver Cirrhosis - Okay I'm not sure where to start my dad got diagnosed with hep c back in 2004. He?
Posted 6 Nov 2016 • 1 answer
Hepatitis C - I judt got the news I am hep c positive. my liver is alleviated quit high is that?
Posted 13 Feb 2017 • 1 answer
Can taking Xifaxan & lactulose for hepatitis C prevent virus from getting worse?
Posted 11 Dec 2017 • 1 answer
Is there a better treatment for Hep C besides the Interferon and its new subsidiarity? TY
Your doctor/specialist will be able to give you information about the best medicine option for you. All the best.