Clostridium difficile, or "C. diff" as it is sometimes referred to, is a hardy bacteria found in the large intestine. Though it is part of our normal intestinal flora, this microorganism can contribute to gastrointestinal issues when the healthy balance of gut bacteria is upset and C. diff is allowed to grow in larger numbers. Clostridium difficile infections can result from the use of antibiotics, which may reduce the population of "good bacteria" in the gut, allowing C. diff to grow and release toxins that can pose potentially serious health risks.
Oral Antibiotics
Though the use of antibiotics may often be the original contributing factor to C. diff infections, specific antibiotic drugs are commonly prescribed for patient treatment in cases of this nature. Metronidazole (more commonly known by its brand name, Flagyl) is the leading antibiotic option for mild to moderate cases of infection, especially considering it is a cheaper alternative to other such drugs. Oral vancomycin is a popular treatment choice as well, specifically for patients with more severe symptoms, though care must be taken to avoid the creation of vancomycin-resistant bacteria in the user's intestine when this particular medication is employed. These antibiotics work by preventing the growth of C. diff, allowing the more "friendly" bacteria to once again flourish and restore the natural balance of flora within the intestine.
Oral Probiotics
Probiotics are microorganisms (bacteria, yeasts, etc.) that are commonly found amongst the flora of our intestinal and digestive tracts. While there is not a wealth of investigational information concerning the use of probiotics alone in combating C. diff infections, Florastor, which contains the probiotic yeast Saccharomyces boulardii lyo, is known to reduce levels of Clostridium difficile in the body, and has been clinically proven to be an effective treatment option when combined with traditional antibiotic drugs.
Fecal Bacteriotherapy
Fecal bacteriotherapy or "stool transplanting" has been identified as a potential probiotic form of treatment for Clostridium difficile-related infections. This procedure attempts to restore the appropriate bacterial balance in an afflicted individual's intestine by introducing a healthy donor's stool into his colon. This is accomplished via a series of enemas meant to infuse the patient with the appropriate levels of flora necessary to return the intestinal environment to a normal, healthy state.
Oral Resins
Oral resins like cholestyramine (brand name Questran) do not specifically eradicate C. diff organisms alone, but these products are used in the treatment of such infections as they act as an effective absorbing agent by binding to the dangerous toxins that Clostridium bacteria release. This aids in the alleviation of diarrhea and painful cramping. As an added bonus, these agents also have the ability to lower one's cholesterol.
Surgery
Cases of severe Clostridium difficile-related infections may require surgical intervention, such as a colectomy, to remove the affected portion of the intestine. This may be required in the event the patient is suffering from life-threatening complications resulting from the infection.
