Rifaximin, which is sold under the brand name Xifaxan is an antibiotic used to treat a bacterial infection in the small intestine called small intestinal bacteria overgrowth or SIBO. SIBO occurs when there are an abnormally large numbers of bacteria in the small intestine. Normally, the small intestine contains fewer bacteria than the colon.Your doctor may advise you to take probiotics while taking rifaximin.
Probiotics
Probiotics are live microorganisms that similar to beneficial bacteria found in your colon, according to the National Center for Complementary Medicine. Probiotics help replace beneficial bacteria that are wiped out by rifaximin and other antibiotics. Probiotics can also reduce gastrointestinal symptoms caused by SIBO. You can obtain probiotics from foods or dietary supplements. Examples of food containing probiotics include yogurt, acidophilus milk, buttermilk, soy beverages, miso and tempeh.
Effects
Probiotics found in food or supplements rarely cause adverse side effects in healthy people. However, some people may experience mild upset stomach, increased intestinal gas and bloating while taking probiotics. Probiotics can cause life-threatening infections in people with lowered immune system, according to the National Center for Complementary Medicine. If you have underlying medical conditions, consult your doctor before you take probiotics.
Symptoms
Symptoms of SIBO include abdominal pain or cramping, abdominal fullness, increased intestinal gas, bloating, watery diarrhea or constipation, fatty stool and unintentional weight loss, according to MedlinePlus. Complications of SIBO include vitamin deficiencies, bleeding disorders, osteoporosis, osteomalacia, dehydration and liver disease. Consult your doctor if you notice these symptoms.
Administration
Rifaximin is available in form of a tablet that is taken orally. Take probiotics two hours after taking rifaximin to replace the beneficial bacteria that the antibiotic kills. Do not stop taking rifaximin even if you begin to feel better. Finish taking the prescription to avoid developing antibiotic resistant bacteria. When taking rifaximin, you may experience common effects such as bloating, abdominal pain, constipation, nausea, vomiting and headache, according to Drugs.com.
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