XIFAXAN FOR THE TREATMENT OF ENCEPHALOPATHY FOR THOSE WITH HEPATITIS AND LIVER DISEASE
Xifaxan ( rifaximin) is a new antibiotic that can successfully treat hepatic encephalopathy in many patients. Studies have shown that Xifaxan treatment is associated with improvements in memory, neuromuscular function, and consciousness in those patients suffering from encephalopathy. It is associated with fewer side effects than current antibiotic regimens used to treat hepatic encephalopathy. Patients have also found xifaxan easier to tolerate with less side effects such as gas, excessively sweat taste and diarrhea that is often associated with lactulose. Finally, Xifaxan is not associated with hearing loss of kidney injury which may occur with neomycin.
All contents of this article are Copyright © Melissa Palmer, MD
Melissa Palmer, MD is the author of " Dr. Melissa Palmer's Guide of Hepatitis and Liver Disease". (Published 2004. Penguin Putnam).
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