Rifaximin reduces EEG relative beta power in patients with minimal hepatic encephalopathy: preliminary findings

Plasma benzodiazepine-like compounds (Bzd-L-Cs) are detectable in normal subjects, and their concentration increases in patients with progressive chronic liver disease. Bzd-L-Cs may precipitate hepatic encephalopathy (HE). The intestinal bacterial flora has been implicated in the production of Bzd-L-Cs and treatment with rifaximin may reduce their levels in patients with cirrhosis. Bzd-L-Cs increase EEG beta activity. We determined whether rifaximin treatment reduces EEG beta activity in patients with cirrhosis and minimal HE (mHE).