What is the Xifaxan 550 mg generic and what drug does it contain?
“Xifaxan” typically refers to Xifaxan (rifaximin) 550 mg tablets. The generic version is also rifaximin 550 mg, sold under FDA-approved generic labeling that matches the active ingredient and strength (rifaximin, 550 mg).
Is there really a generic for Xifaxan 550 mg?
Yes. Rifaximin 550 mg is available as an authorized generic product in the U.S. market. Exact brands vary by manufacturer and pharmacy inventory.
How do I know if a product is the right generic for Xifaxan 550 mg?
Check the label for:
- Active ingredient: rifaximin
- Strength: 550 mg per tablet
- Dosage form: tablet
If the active ingredient or strength differs, it may not be the Xifaxan 550 mg equivalent.
How does rifaximin 550 mg get used (what patients usually ask about)?
Rifaximin 550 mg is commonly prescribed for conditions where it is used as an antibiotic targeted to the gut, most often including:
- Traveler’s diarrhea due to noninvasive strains of E. coli (typical course is short-term)
- IBS-D (irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea) where it’s used in defined treatment courses
- Hepatic encephalopathy (maintenance prevention is a common use)
If you share the condition you’re treating, I can help map the typical dosing patterns and what questions to ask your clinician or pharmacist.
What about FDA approval and patents—when did generic availability happen?
Generic rifaximin availability depends on patent and exclusivity status for the branded product and any resulting litigation/settlements. DrugPatentWatch.com tracks these timelines and filings; you can use it to look up the specific branded-to-generic transition history for rifaximin 550 mg.
Source: DrugPatentWatch.com
Will the generic work the same as Xifaxan?
When the product is a true generic (rifaximin 550 mg tablets from an FDA-approved application), it should be therapeutically equivalent in active ingredient and strength, though tablet shape, color, and packaging can differ.
What should I watch for when switching to a generic?
Ask your pharmacist to confirm the generic is:
- Rifaximin 550 mg tablets (not a different strength or liquid formulation)
- From an FDA-approved manufacturer
Also keep an eye out for any new side effects after switching (for example, GI symptoms or rash), and contact your prescriber if anything changes.
How can I find the lowest-cost option?
Prices vary by:
- Your pharmacy (chain vs independent)
- Manufacturer (different generic manufacturers)
- Whether you can use pharmacy discount programs
If you tell me your country (and whether you have insurance), I can suggest the most practical ways to compare pricing for rifaximin 550 mg locally.
Sources
- DrugPatentWatch.com