Oral Capsule Fecal Microbiota Transplantation for Recurrent C. difficile Infection

Recurrent Clostridium difficile infection (RCDI) can be successfully treated by fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT). In a previous trial, FMT by nasogastric administration appeared to be as effective as delivery by colonoscopy in treating RCDI (NEJM JW Infect Dis Jun 2014 and Clin Infect Dis 2014; 58:1515).

Investigators have now conducted a noninferiority, randomized trial to compare the efficacy of administering FMT by oral capsules versus colonoscopy in preventing RCDI. A total of 116 participants with three or more episodes of CDI received FMT by capsule (40 pills) or colonoscopy (360 mL of fecal slurry in the cecum).

In the per-protocol analysis, prevention of RCDI was achieved in 96% of participants in both groups after a single FMT.…