Rifaximin effectively improves abdominal distension and provides overall symptom relief for irritable bowel syndrome patients.

A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) was carried out to evaluate both the efficacy of Rifaximin in easing irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) symptoms and  deleterious effects.

Databases like Google Scholar, Scopus, Cochrane Library, PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science were searched for studies examining Rifaximin with a placebo in addressing IBS symptoms. Risk ratios (RRs) and their 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated for all the relevant outcomes.

Overall, six RCTs were incorporated. The findings indicated improved abdominal distension using Rifaximin when compared to the control group. Furthermore, patients receiving Rifaximin experienced overall relief of symptoms at both the treatment and follow-up periods.

However, no profound differences were witnessed between the Rifaximin group and the control group regarding outcomes such as upper respiratory tract infection, bronchitis, sinusitis, diarrhea, abdominal pain, vomiting,  nausea, and headache.

The findings favored the utilization of Rifaximin in treating IBS due to its safety and effectiveness profile. Additional RCTs must be carried out to explore it more comprehensively.