Table of Contents
I. Can I use Expired Medication?
II. How to Properly Store Xifaxan
Xifaxan medication is used to prevent symptoms of uncomplicated traveler’s diarrhea [1] and IBS-D (irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea). The shelf life of Xifaxan extends 36 months (three years) from the manufacture date. It is essential to use your medication before its expiry date to ensure that Xifaxan works effectively.
Online Canadian pharmacies like MyDrugCenter offer several different dosage strengths to meet your treatment needs. Xifaxan typically comes in the form of coated tablets. The dosage of your prescription depends on your medical condition. Treatment with Xifaxan differs from condition to condition:
- Traveler’s diarrhea: Typically, one 200 mg tablet three times a day for three days.
- IBS-D: The recommended dose is 550 mg three times a day for 14 days.
- Hepatic encephalopathy: Your doctor may prescribe a 550 mg tablet twice a day. Treatment for this condition is ongoing, so your treatment plan may last longer than IBS-D or traveler’s diarrhea.
The dosage and frequency of Xifaxan depend on your individual condition and your doctor will let you know what is best for your treatment plan. MyDrugCenter offers a Xifaxan knowledge base to answer all of your questions. Learn more about how to store Xifaxan properly below.
Can I use Expired Medication?
Medications are expensive, and it may seem wasteful to throw away your prescription drugs. You want to dispose of medications to avoid dangerous medical events. The Food and Drug Administration makes specific dates for all approved medications based on years of research.
The expiration date does not necessarily mean that the medication is no longer effective. The date is determined by the drug manufacturer and Food and Drug Administration to determine the full potency. Research has found that coated tablets like Xifaxan 550mg stay stable longer than liquids or suspension medications. Xifaxan does not require refrigeration, which makes it less likely to become unstable quickly.
A medication’s potency decreases over time once it leaves the factory. The expiration date is an assurance that the labeled potency will last at least until that date. Regardless of this information, it is important to pay attention to expiration dates to ensure you are getting the most of Xifaxan. You can maintain the lifespan of medication by storing it properly. [2]
How to Properly Store Xifaxan
If you are taking Xifaxan, you should make sure no one else in your household has access to your medications. This is important because the prescription is made specifically for you and may cause serious side effects for other adults, children, or animals who take your tablets. Other helpful tips for storing Xifaxan include:
- Keep Xifaxan at room temperature
- Keep the tablets away from hot temperatures or humidity
- Do not keep your medications in the bathroom
Even if your prescriptions are not expired, certain circumstances can make the medication less effective. [3] If you notice the following, you may want to dispose of your medication:
- Change in smell or color of the tablets
- The tablets are sticking together
- Pills that are softer than usual
DISCLAIMER: The information in the article is not meant to be used for treatment or diagnosis. It is designed for general awareness and for information purposes only. Always consult a medical professional for your specific healthcare needs.
Why Is Xifaxan Not Covered By Insurance?