Rifaximin reduces frequency of evacuation

SteveRoffmanMember

I had jpouch surgery in 2000.
I have had a frequency of 12-14 per day.
I was told just 9 months ago I have chronic pouchitis that was very well reduced with cipro and flagyl except they could not be given chronically since there is a significant albeit small chance of tendon rupture.

I discovered the research og Dr. Bo Chen at the Cleveland clinic who showed how rifaximin could be used safely as it is an antibiotic not adsorbed into the body.

I now have a frequency of 6-7 and often use the bathroom only once or twice at work. I am very happy. I did have to beg my GI to prescribe it.

Hope this helps someone.

PS I was told by my surgeon (Joel Bauer, Mt Sinai NYC)Not to take Metamucil.
HE WAS SO RIGHT!!!

Email me if you'd like at steve@metaframes.com.

11/26/133:56 PM

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Scott FMember

I'm glad the Xifaxan is working for you (and that your insuarnce is paying for it - it costs about $1500/month). Plenty of folks stay on Cipro long term - the tendon rupture concern is mostly a problem if your doctor is bad at math, since the risk remains quite low while on Cipro, just not as low as off Cipro.

11/26/136:55 PM

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AllyKatMember

I had great success with xifaxan for about 3 years and then it stopped working. I have not taken it for 4 years now and back on it. I hope it will work again? My insurance has not met my deductible yet so I was quoted $1000 at Costco, yikes, my holiday present this year I guess.

11/26/137:31 PM

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phonix2gMember

That's great to hear that you found something that works for you that well after so long without as many risks. I give you lots of credit for dealing with chronic pouchitis for all those years. It's definitely a mental test having to deal with the inconvenience of having to go to the bathroom that often. I hope you continue to find new things that help you reach your normal. Good Luck.

11/26/137:32 PM

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SteveRoffmanMember

Thanks to all. I had no idea the cost of rifaximin even generic which I take.

11/27/1312:12 AM

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