IBS v Xifaxan (rifaximin).

Dr Mark Pimentel reported on the effectiveness of Xifaxan in treatment of irritable bowel syndrome in phase 3 clinical trials involving 1260 people.

These people received 550mg mg Xifaxan or placebo 3 times a day for 14 days.

Target 1. The percentage who had adequate relief in of IBS symptoms in 2 or more of the 4 weeks after this treatment. Results – placebo 31% – Xifaxan 41%.

Target 2. As above, but replace IBS symptoms with bloating. Results – placebo 32% – Xifaxan 41%.

According to Science Daily, “Rifaximin is marketed by Salix Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Salix also provided funding for the studies. Pimentel discovered the use of rifaximin for IBS, and Cedars-Sinai holds patent rights to this discovery and has licensed rights to the invention to Salix. Dr. Pimentel is a consultant to Salix, Inc, and serves on its scientific advisory board.”