EFFICACY OF RIFAXIMIN USE IN THE PREVENTION OF HEPATIC ENCEPHALOPATHY

Abstract

Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is a common and debilitating complication of liver cirrhosis, associated with significant morbidity, mortality, and impaired quality of life. Rifaximin, a non-absorbable oral antibiotic, is widely used in the secondary prophylaxis of HE, although its role in primary prevention remains uncertain. This literature review aimed to evaluate the efficacy of rifaximin in preventing hepatic encephalopathy, based on evidence from clinical studies. Seven studies met the inclusion criteria and were analyzed. Most demonstrated clinical benefits of rifaximin, either in reducing recurrent episodes of HE or in prevention following precipitating events such as variceal bleeding or TIPS procedures. Despite some methodological limitations, findings suggest that rifaximin is an effective and safe strategy for the prevention of HE, supporting its role in the management of patients with liver cirrhosis.