How can I know if Rifaximin is working?

After completing the 10-day course of rifaximin and starting the fish oil and olive oil, parents will ask how they determine whether the doses are correct for their child. There are two things I look for when assessing the effectiveness of treatment.nnFirst, the reversal of bacterial overgrowth with one course (10 days) of rifaximin will lead to a drop in propionic acid and often the awakening period. This is a period when the child becomes more aware, has more eye contact, more alertness, and more engagement, but may have more stimming or insomnia.nnSecondly, if the intestinal bacteria blend has been rebalanced and the proper amounts of fish oil and olive oil are given, there should be a noticeable increase in the rate of neurological development within the next few months. If there is no significant improvement after 2-3 months, I assume the intestinal bacteria are rapidly relapsing, and more frequent dosing of rifaximin is needed.