Rifaximin is widely used in the treatment of gastrointestinal infections, particularly traveler's diarrhea caused by E. coli. It is also effective in managing irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea (IBS-D) by reducing symptoms like bloating and abdominal pain. Additionally, it is used to prevent hepatic encephalopathy, a condition caused by liver dysfunction that affects brain function. Its non-systemic nature makes it suitable for targeting gut-specific issues with minimal absorption into the bloodstream.