Elric 1

[Elric1]

I have cirrhosis and I am becoming confused more each day does anyone know if I should be taking Xifaxan because this helps with the confusion and stops you slipping into a coma ??? Kindest regards Elric 1

[Laura009]

Hi Elric.

Are you also taking lactulose? You need to be. Your doctor should be prescribing it for you.

Best wishes Laura

[Elric1 in reply to Laura009]

Thanks Laura009

[Elric1 in reply to Laura009]

should I be taking Xifaxan ?

[Elric1]

No Laura I'm taking dulco lax I'm going to Drs to get sorted do you think I should b using xifaxan ?

[AyrshireK in reply to Elric1]

Lactulose is usually the first medication for any signs of HE, it isn't just a laxative but actually has special properties that removes toxins from the body via stools. You should be going to the toilet (moving your bowels) three to four times daily to remove toxins if not then you might start getting HE symptoms. Your doctor should be able to assess whether or not you are showing signs of this - blood tests for ammonia plus physical tests (for hand flapping etc).

My hubby was only put on Rifaximin two years after initial cirrhosis diagnosis (by transplant clinic doctors) before that just lactulose.

Katie

[Elric1 in reply to AyrshireK]

Thanks for that what country are you in ?

[AyrshireK in reply to Elric1]

Scotland

[Elric1 in reply to AyrshireK]

Thanks you give me fuel for my next debate with the system

[davianne]

Hi Eric, I just take lactulose for HE. I've never been prescribed anything else for it. You should check it out with your GP or Consultant.

We, on here, are not qualified to give the advice you seek.

David

[Hidden]

Good morning,

Good advice from fellow forum users but as Davianne says this is definitely something to discuss with your liver team.....

[Elric1 in reply to Hidden]

Got the best advice on here wish I could get the same from the system

[Chatterbox3517]

Hello Elric, please tell your doctor to prescribe you Lactulose. My hubby was in the hospital because his ammonia level was too high. That is what is more than likely causing ur confusion. Hope all goes well 🤗

[Elric1 in reply to Chatterbox3517]

Thanks 🙏

[Terricotta]

Hi Elric1, what have the doctors given you the xifaxan for?

[AyrshireK in reply to Terricotta]

He hasn't been given Xifaxan, that's what he's asking about and whether he should perhaps be on it. He feels he has symptoms which might be related to Hepatic Encephalopathy although not yet discussed with medical team. Rifaximin/Xifaxan is a treatment usually used in conjunction with lactulose to treat toxin build up which can lead to HE.

[Terricotta in reply to AyrshireK]

Thank you for your reply, AyrshireK. My mistake - I misconstrued. Is it normal to be given such a drug for encephalopathy?

[AyrshireK in reply to Terricotta]

The usual first line treatment for potential HE would be lactulose and now often in combination with Rifaximin. My hubby was on lactulose only for 2 years then Rifaximin was added when he was assessed at t/p unit. Still on both now. Still has minor HE type symptoms but has never (thankfully) had any more serious sign of it.

[Elric1 in reply to AyrshireK]

That my friend is so helpful thanks again