Key takeaways
Ibsrela (tenapanor) and Xifaxan (rifaximin) are both prescription medications, but they treat different types of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Ibsrela is used for irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (IBS-C). It works by preventing sodium absorption in the gut, which utliamtely helps soften stool and works on the nerves in the gut to relieve stomach pain.Ibsrela is taken twice a day. Common side effects include diarrhea, bloating, and gas. On the other hand, Xifaxan is an antibiotic used for irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea (IBS-D) as well as travelers' diarrhea caused by *E. coli*, and to prevent hepatic encephalopathy. It works by stopping bacteria from making proteins that they need to survive, which prevents bacteria from growing and spreading. Xifaxan is taken it two to three times a day, dpending on why you are taking it. It's main side effect associated with IBS-D is nausea. Xifaxan can be taken with or without food, unlike Ibsrela which has to be taken before a meal.
