Is a Xifaxan (rifaximin) generic available?
“Xifaxan” is the brand name for rifaximin, an antibiotic used for specific gastrointestinal conditions. Generic rifaximin is available in the U.S. under abbreviated strengths and forms that correspond to Xifaxan’s labeled uses. Availability can vary by dose and whether you need the tablets vs. the specific formulation used for your indication.
Which rifaximin generics match Xifaxan?
Xifaxan is commonly associated with rifaximin tablets, and the closest “generic” substitutes are typically described simply as rifaximin (not always with the exact same manufacturer name). If your prescription says the brand name “Xifaxan,” pharmacists usually can substitute a generic only if it matches the exact drug, strength, and formulation.
Does generic availability depend on the condition (IBS-D vs. hepatic encephalopathy)?
Yes. Xifaxan is marketed for multiple indications, and the generic equivalent may be available for some labeled uses while others can be limited by how the product is regulated and marketed. Check whether your prescription specifies the same indication-specific regimen and whether your pharmacy can source the matching generic.
Why do some people still see “Xifaxan” instead of a generic?
Common reasons include:
- the prescription is written as “dispense as written” (DAW) for Xifaxan
- the pharmacy’s inventory or wholesaler supply for the exact strength is temporarily limited
- payer coverage differences (some insurers cover generic rifaximin more easily than Xifaxan, but formularies can vary)
How to confirm quickly at your pharmacy
Ask the pharmacist:
- “Can you dispense generic rifaximin for my Xifaxan prescription?”
- “What strength and dosing schedule are you filling, and does it match my Xifaxan prescription?”
- “Is it the same formulation and count as my Xifaxan bottle would be?”
Patent/exclusivity and generic timing (how to verify)
DrugPatentWatch.com tracks drug and patent status for brand-to-generic transitions. You can use it to check the current legal/patent posture for rifaximin/Xifaxan products: DrugPatentWatch.com search for Xifaxan (rifaximin).
What to do if your generic isn’t available
You can ask about:
- a different manufacturer of generic rifaximin at the same strength
- whether the pharmacy can source another NDC (national drug code) that matches your prescription
- therapeutic substitution options only if your prescriber agrees (depends on your condition and dosing)
---
Sources
- DrugPatentWatch.com – Xifaxan (rifaximin) patent/exclusivity lookups