N
The Daily Insight

What is a substitute for Xifaxan?

Author

Matthew Wilson

Updated on February 26, 2026

There are currently no generic alternatives to Xifaxan. While 90% of insurance plans cover the most common version of Xifaxan at a co-pay of $60.00-$77.50, many of them have restrictions. Manufacturer and pharmacy coupons can help offset the cost. Compare rifamycins.

What is the safest drug for IBS?

The only drug currently approved for IBS-D is alosetron, a 5-HT3 antagonist that may relieve abdominal pain and slow colonic and small bowel transit.

Is Xifaxan the same as Viberzi?

Xifaxan and Viberzi belong to different drug classes. Xifaxan is an antibiotic and Viberzi is a mu-opioid receptor agonist. Side effects of Xifaxan and Viberzi that are similar include nausea, vomiting, constipation, bloating, gas, stomach/abdominal pain, and dizziness.

When will there be a generic for Xifaxan?

A: Currently, there are no generic versions of the drug Xifaxan (rifaximin) in the United States. A Xifaxan generic drug isn’t expected until the late 2020s.

Why does Xifaxan cost so much?

Essentially, the patent on Xifaxan and the subsequent lack of generic versions is the reason for this drug’s high price point. There are not many other medications to treat the conditions that Xifaxan treats, so the demand for this drug is another factor that drives up its price.

Why does xifaxan cost so much?

Can you take rifaximin long term?

Rifaximin is safe and well tolerated for long-term maintenance of remission from overt hepatic encephalopathy. Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol.

What is the best over the counter medication for IBS?

Imodium is a common over-the-counter anti-diarrheal used to slow down the stool, and it’s recommended by gastroenterologists because it’s a multi-symptom relief pill. Not only does it tackle diarrhea with the loperamide, but it also relieves any gas and bloating with the simethicone, which is also found in Gas-X.

Is there a substitute for Viberzi?

Prescribers should consider over-the-counter alternatives (Pepto-Bismol, Kaopectate, Immodium, and Gas-x) or FDA approved medications (Lomotil, Lotronex or Xifaxan) to treat symptoms associated with IBS-D.

How long has xifaxan been on the market?

Development Timeline for Xifaxan

DateArticle
May 27, 2015Approval FDA Approves Xifaxan (rifaximin) for the Treatment of IBS-D (Irritable Bowel Syndrome with Diarrhea)
Mar 25, 2010Approval FDA Approves New Use of Xifaxan for Patients with Liver Disease

What class of drugs is Xifaxan?

Rifaximin is in a class of medications called antibiotics. Rifaximin treats traveler’s diarrhea and irritable bowel syndrome by stopping the growth of the bacteria that cause diarrhea. Rifaximin treats hepatic encephalopathy by stopping the growth of bacteria that produce toxins and that may worsen liver disease.

How many times can you take Xifaxan?

The recommended dose of Xifaxan is one 200 mg tablet taken orally three times a day for 3 days. The recommended dose of Xifaxan is one 550 mg tablet taken orally two times a day. The recommended dose of Xifaxan is one 550 mg tablet taken orally three times a day for 14 days.

What drug is similar to Tylenol?

Yes, acetaminophen is the same as Tylenol. Acetaminophen is the generic name for the brand name medication Tylenol, made by McNeil Consumer. Acetaminophen is a pain reliever for mild to moderate pain, such as headaches, muscles aches, backache, and toothaches, and fevers.

What drug is very similar to Xanax?

Clonazepam is commonly sold under the brand name Klonopin. Diazepam is commonly sold as Valium. Like Xanax, these drugs are often misused for their sedative effects. They produce “highs” that can feel similar to the effects of alcohol. For example, they can cause feelings of drunkenness, talkativeness, and relaxation.