Xifaxan, also known by its generic name Rifaximin, is an antibiotic that treats certain types of gastrointestinal infections. It is primarily used to treat travelers’ diarrhea, irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea (IBS-D), and to reduce the recurrence of hepatic encephalopathy, a condition in which the liver fails to remove toxins from the blood, causing brain function problems. In the United States, Xifaxan is widely prescribed due to its effectiveness and tolerability, but its cost can be high, especially for those without comprehensive insurance coverage. Below, we’ll explore the uses, dosage, pricing, and potential ways to save on Xifaxan, including generic options and insurance coverage.
Xifaxan Uses: What Is Xifaxan Used For?
Xifaxan is used to treat various bacterial infections in the intestines. Its most common uses include:
- Travelers’ diarrhea: Xifaxan is used to treat diarrhea caused by Escherichia coli (E. coli) in adults and children who are at least 12 years old. It helps reduce the symptoms of diarrhea and shorten its duration.
- Irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea (IBS-D): Xifaxan is a unique antibiotic option for patients with IBS-D. Unlike other antibiotics, it stays in the gut and doesn’t get absorbed into the bloodstream, which limits side effects and makes it more effective for gut-specific issues.
- Hepatic encephalopathy: Xifaxan helps reduce the risk of recurrence of hepatic encephalopathy, a severe condition linked to liver disease. By reducing the number of ammonia-producing bacteria in the gut, it can prevent the buildup of toxins that affect brain function.
Xifaxan is a highly specialized antibiotic that is generally well-tolerated by patients. The effects of the medication are typically felt within 24 to 48 hours of starting the treatment, particularly when used for travelers’ diarrhea. For IBS-D and hepatic encephalopathy, patients may notice gradual improvements over a period of several days to weeks, depending on the severity of the condition.
Xifaxan Dosage: How Much Should You Take?
Xifaxan is available in different dosages, with the most common being the 200 mg and 550 mg formulations. The dosage you take will depend on the condition being treated:
- Travelers’ diarrhea: The recommended dosage for treating travelers’ diarrhea is 200 mg taken three times a day for three days.
- IBS-D: For IBS-D, the standard dosage is 550 mg taken three times a day for 14 days. If symptoms recur, your healthcare provider may recommend repeating the course.
- Hepatic encephalopathy: To prevent hepatic encephalopathy, the typical dosage is 550 mg taken twice a day on a continuous basis.
It is important to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions carefully and complete the full course of treatment, even if you start feeling better. Missing doses or stopping treatment early can increase the risk of the infection returning or worsening.
Xifaxan Pricing: Xifaxan Price with Insurance vs. Without Insurance
The cost of Xifaxan can vary depending on factors such as insurance coverage, pharmacy pricing, and available discounts. Here is a breakdown of the different pricing scenarios:
| Purchase Option | Details | Estimated Price |
|---|---|---|
| Insurance Coverage | Xifaxan is covered by most health insurance plans, including Medicare Part D and Medicaid. However, restrictions like prior authorization and quantity limits may apply. Co-pays and deductibles will affect the final cost. | Varies based on plan |
| Coupons (GoodRx, SingleCare) | Discounts are available through coupon programs. For example, GoodRx offers a coupon for 42 tablets of Xifaxan 550 mg, reducing the price to $2,208.72 (14.55% off the average retail price). | $2,208.72 (42 tablets, 550 mg) |
| Retail Pharmacy Price | Without insurance, the average retail price of 30 tablets of Xifaxan 550 mg is approximately $2,000, though prices may vary based on the pharmacy. | $2,000 (30 tablets, 550 mg) |
| Low-Income Subsidy Program | Patients eligible for the Low-Income Subsidy program may be able to get Xifaxan for as little as $10.35 per prescription. | $10.35 (per prescription) |
| Generic Purchase Online | Rifaximin, the generic version of Xifaxan, is available online. For example, 60 tablets of 200 mg can be purchased for around $104.95, making it a much more affordable option. | $104.95 (60 tablets, 200 mg) |
As seen in the table, the cost of Xifaxan can be quite high, especially if you are purchasing it without insurance. However, by using coupons, insurance, or opting for a generic version like Rifaximin, you can significantly lower your out-of-pocket expenses.
Xifaxan Generic Cost: Save with Rifaximin
One of the most effective ways to save on your Xifaxan prescription is to purchase its generic equivalent, Rifaximin. Generic drugs contain the same active ingredients as brand-name medications, offering the same effectiveness but at a lower price point. The FDA ensures that all generic drugs meet the same standards of quality, safety, and effectiveness as their brand-name counterparts.
By purchasing Rifaximin 200 mg tablets online, you can save a substantial amount compared to the brand-name Xifaxan. For example, 60 tablets of Rifaximin 200 mg can be purchased for just $104.95. This is especially helpful for patients who do not have insurance or who face high co-pays for Xifaxan.
We have been a trusted provider of affordable generic medications for years. Our prices are competitive, and no prescription is required to purchase Rifaximin through our online pharmacy. This makes it an ideal solution for patients looking to manage their treatment without breaking the bank.
Cost Breakdown for a Standard Xifaxan Treatment Course
The cost of a standard Xifaxan treatment course will depend on the condition being treated and the prescribed dosage. Here’s a sample cost breakdown for a typical treatment course:
Example: For IBS-D, the standard course of treatment involves taking 550 mg of Xifaxan three times a day for 14 days, requiring 42 tablets. Using the GoodRx coupon, the total cost would be:
- Retail price: $2,208.72 for 42 tablets (550 mg each)
- With coupon: $1,887.92 (after 14.55% discount)
- Generic Rifaximin option (200 mg): $104.95 for 60 tablets (note: dosage and frequency may vary)
By choosing generic Rifaximin, patients can save over 90% compared to the retail price of Xifaxan. This makes it a highly cost-effective alternative for those requiring long-term treatment or repeated courses of the medication.
Frequently Asked Questions about Xifaxan
1. Is Xifaxan covered by insurance?
Yes, Xifaxan is covered by most health insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid. However, you may need prior authorization or meet certain criteria to have it covered. Your out-of-pocket costs will depend on your insurance plan, co-pay, and deductible.
2. Can I buy Xifaxan without insurance?
Yes, but the cost of Xifaxan without insurance can be high, with retail prices for 30 tablets of 550 mg reaching around $2,000. You can lower this cost using coupons from services like GoodRx or by purchasing the generic version, Rifaximin.
3. Are there alternatives to Xifaxan?
While Xifaxan is highly effective for certain conditions, alternatives like Rifaximin (generic Xifaxan) or other antibiotics may be available depending on your diagnosis. Always consult your doctor to find the best treatment for your condition.
4. How long does it take for Xifaxan to work?
Most patients start to see improvements within 24 to 48 hours for conditions like travelers’ diarrhea. For IBS-D or hepatic encephalopathy, it may take a few days to a couple of weeks to notice the full effects.
5. Can I take Xifaxan long-term?
For conditions like hepatic encephalopathy, Xifaxan can be taken long-term under the supervision of a healthcare provider. However, for IBS-D, it is typically prescribed as a 14-day course, which may be repeated if symptoms return.