Treatment
Oral medication:
For most cases of C. diff infection, specific antibiotics will be prescribed.
In Australia, oral metronidazole or vancomycin are the first-line therapies for mild to moderate disease.
Oral fidaxomicin may also be prescribed in some instances, particularly if recurrent C. diff infection is experienced.
It is important that you follow the instructions given by your doctor or pharmacist when taking antibiotics to ensure your safety and the best healthcare outcomes.
Speak to your healthcare team if you have any questions about correct use of your prescribed medications.
Faecal microbiota transplant (FMT):
FMT (sometimes known as a poo transplant) may be used to treat severe or recurrent infections.
Your gut, has millions of tiny living organisms and good bacteria within it, collectively known as your gut microbiota. Everyone’s gut microbiota is different and this can affect your health. The idea behind FMT treatment is to transfer good, healthy microbiota from a donor into someone whose current gut microbiota may be making them sick.
There has been a lot of news recently about the possible uses of FMT to treat different health conditions, however in Australia, FMT is currently only approved by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) to be used to treat recurrent or severe C. diff infections.
Microbiota (Poo) donations are made through the The Australian Red Cross (Lifeblood). More information about microbiota donation and FMT can be found on their website https://www.lifeblood.com.au/donors/microbiome
