From the Guidelines
If you experience palpitations while taking rifaximin (Xifaxan), you should contact your healthcare provider promptly. Palpitations are not a common side effect of rifaximin, which suggests they could be either an uncommon reaction to the medication or potentially unrelated to the drug 1. While continuing your prescribed dosage until speaking with your doctor, monitor other symptoms such as dizziness, shortness of breath, chest pain, or fainting, which would warrant immediate emergency care.
When you speak with your healthcare provider, be prepared to describe when the palpitations started, their frequency, duration, and any other symptoms you're experiencing. Your doctor may need to evaluate whether the palpitations are related to rifaximin or have another cause, possibly adjusting your medication or ordering tests to investigate further. Rifaximin primarily works in the intestines with minimal absorption into the bloodstream, which is why cardiovascular side effects are uncommon, but individual reactions can vary 1. Never stop taking prescribed medication suddenly without medical guidance.
Some key points to consider when discussing your symptoms with your healthcare provider include:
- The timing and severity of the palpitations
- Any other symptoms you are experiencing
- Your medical history and any pre-existing conditions
- Any other medications you are taking that could potentially interact with rifaximin 1 It's essential to follow your healthcare provider's advice and not to stop taking rifaximin without their guidance, as this could lead to worsening of your underlying condition. Always prioritize your health and safety by seeking medical attention if you experience any severe or concerning symptoms.
From the Research
Palpitations on Rifaximin 550
- The provided studies do not directly address the issue of palpitations while taking rifaximin (Xifaxan) 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- These studies focus on the efficacy and safety of rifaximin in treating various conditions such as hepatic encephalopathy, small intestinal bacterial overgrowth, and irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea.
- None of the studies mention palpitations as a common side effect of rifaximin, but they do discuss other adverse events and their frequencies.
- If you are experiencing palpitations while taking rifaximin, it is recommended to consult your healthcare provider to discuss the potential causes and appropriate course of action 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
Potential Next Steps
- Consult your healthcare provider to report the palpitations and discuss potential causes and next steps.
- Your healthcare provider may recommend monitoring your heart rate and blood pressure, adjusting your medication, or performing further tests to determine the cause of the palpitations.
- It is essential to follow your healthcare provider's guidance and attend scheduled follow-up appointments to ensure your safety while taking rifaximin 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.