re c-diff

What is the standard treatment for c-diff?  How does one obtain this problem and is it contagious?

[Kevin Pho, MD]

C Difficile is a bacteria that colonizes the gut after the normal bacteria is altered by antibiotic therapy.  When one has C Diff, it  is contagious by patient contact - handwashing and contact precautions have been shown to reduce transmission.

Treatment is typically with an antibiotic known as Flagyl.  Alternative therapy can also be done with oral Vancomycin - however this is normally second-line therapy.

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin, M.D.
Medical Weblog:
kevinmd_b

[luckless]

Flagyl is the treatment for c diff. For people who are immune supressed it can be contagious. Most people get it as a result of antibiotic therapy. Some people believe that taking probiotics or eating foods rich in probiotics helps prevent reoccurance.