Rifaximin for IBS
In some cases, irritable bowel syndrome has been linked to an overgrowth of bacteria in the gut, which may be why some people have found relief from taking an antibiotic such as Rifaximin.
Rifaximin is often used to treat traveller’s diarrhoea which can occur as a result of certain bacteria. It works by inhibiting the growth of bacteria inside the intestines. Research has now pointed to Rifaximin as having a beneficial role in the treatment of IBS and what is particularly interesting is that the benefit appears to continue even after the medication has stopped.
What is IBS?
No one as yet fully understands what IBS actually is. What is known is that some people suffer from diarrhoea, some from constipation and yet others have a combination of both diarrhoea and constipation so bowel movements are not functioning in the way they should. Several different factors have been implicated as a possible trigger for IBS including bacterial overgrowth, food intolerances and stress. People with IBS appear to be more sensitive to the effects of stress on the digestive system.
Treatment of IBS involves finding ways to cope with the symptoms because there is not a standard drug that is exclusively used to treat IBS. IBS is only diagnosed when all other potential causes of the symptoms are eliminated. The evidence that bacterial overgrowth may play a significant role in IBS in some people is a major step forward in understanding possible causes of IBS.
Research and Rifaximin for IBS
Researchers in Honolulu gave 87 people with IBS either a ten day course of Rifaximin or a placebo. The patients were asked to record details of their bowel movements for a period of seven days after the treatment ended. They also completed a symptom questionnaire and underwent a Lactulose breath test. The Rifaximin group had an overall improvement in symptoms of around 40%, almost double of that found in the placebo group.
What are the side effects of Rifaximin?
Side effects can occur with any medication and some of these may be mild and pose little or no problems, whereas others can be potentially serious. Of course some people find they have no side effects at all. The most common side effect experienced when taking Rifaximin is nausea and vomiting. More serious side effects such as skin rashes, itching, difficulty breathing or swallowing, swelling, fever and chills are rare but if you experience them, consult your doctor without delay.
It’s also important to inform your doctor about any other medication you may be taking including over the counter remedies before embarking on a course of Rifaximin.
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