Clostridioides difficile (C. difficile) infections are among the most common hospital-acquired gastrointestinal illnesses in the U.S., responsible for nearly 500,000 infections annually and approximately 15,000 deaths, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). These infections often arise after antibiotic use disrupts the balance of gut bacteria, allowing C. difficile to overgrow. Symptoms range from mild diarrhea to life-threatening colitis. For patients and caregivers, selecting the proper treatment is critical to restoring digestive health and preventing recurrence.

Dificid 200 mg (fidaxomicin) is a targeted oral antibiotic explicitly designed to treat C. difficile-associated diarrhea. This article breaks down how Dificid works, who it’s for, what to expect, and how it compares to other treatments.

What is Dificid?

Dificid 200 mg is a macrolide antibiotic that treats infections caused by C. difficile bacteria in the colon. Unlike broad-spectrum antibiotics, which kill a wide range of bacteria (good and bad), Dificid is narrow-spectrum, meaning it targets explicitly C. difficile with minimal disruption to the rest of your gut flora.

It’s taken orally and is FDA-approved for adults and children 6 months and older. Because of its focused approach, Dificid has shown high cure rates and a lower recurrence rate than some older antibiotics.

How Fast Does Dificid Work?

Dificid uses include killing C. difficile by inhibiting RNA polymerase, an enzyme the bacteria need to produce essential proteins and grow. This selective mechanism prevents the bacteria from reproducing, ultimately leading to their death.

Importantly, Dificid remains mainly in the gut and is not absorbed systemically, reducing the risk of systemic side effects and making it safer for patients with other health conditions. This gut-focused action also allows beneficial bacteria to survive, reducing the chances of future infections.

When is Dificid Prescribed?

Dificid is often prescribed for:

• Initial episodes of C. difficile infection
• Recurrent infections, particularly if other treatments like vancomycin or metronidazole failed
• Patients at high risk of recurrence, such as older adults or immunocompromised individuals

Your doctor may also recommend Dificid if you’ve experienced multiple rounds of treatment without full recovery or have had adverse effects from other antibiotics.

Dificid Side Effects

While generally well-tolerated, Dificid can cause side effects, including:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Abdominal pain
• Gastrointestinal bleeding (rare)
• Anemia
• Low white blood cell count (uncommon)

Most Dificid side effects are mild and resolve once the medication is finished. If you experience persistent or severe symptoms, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

Dificid vs Other C. diff Treatments

The main alternatives to Dificid are vancomycin and metronidazole, which are older antibiotics. Here’s how they compare:

• Vancomycin: Widely used, effective, but can kill more beneficial bacteria, increasing recurrence risk
• Metronidazole: Previously, it was a first-line treatment, but it is now less favored due to lower efficacy and more systemic side effects.
• Fecal microbiota transplant (FMT): Used in severe or recurrent cases where antibiotics fail

In clinical studies, Dificid has demonstrated comparable initial cure rates to vancomycin but significantly lower recurrence rates, making it a top choice for second-line or high-risk cases.

Who Shouldn’t Take Dificid?

Dificid is not for everyone. You should inform your doctor if you:

• Have a known allergy to fidaxomicin or similar antibiotics
• Are you pregnant or breastfeeding (your doctor will weigh the risks and benefits)
• Have a history of blood disorders or gastrointestinal bleeding

Your provider will review your complete medical history before prescribing Dificid to ensure it’s appropriate for you.

How to Take Dificid

Dificid is taken by mouth, usually:

• One tablet (200 mg) every 12 hours
• With or without food
• For a typical course of 10 days

It’s essential to complete the full course even if symptoms improve early. Stopping too soon can allow the infection to come back or worsen.

Storage and Handling

• Store at room temperature
• Keep in original packaging
• Do not use past the expiration date

Always keep medications out of reach of children and pets.

Understanding the Dificid Cost

Dificid can be more expensive than other antibiotics. Depending on your insurance coverage, your out-of-pocket cost may vary significantly. Some plans require prior authorization or prefer lower-cost alternatives like vancomycin.

If affordability is a concern, ask your doctor or pharmacist about manufacturer savings cards, Dificid patient assistance programs, or pharmacy discount options to help reduce the cost. You can also search for a Dificid copay card or a Dificid coupon online from verified sources or visit the manufacturer’s website for potential savings offers you can bring to your pharmacy.

Why Is Dificid So Expensive?

This medication is expensive because it’s a specialized, brand-name antibiotic with no Dificid generic version currently available. It’s designed with fewer side effects and a lower recurrence rate, increasing its development and production costs. 

Additionally, limited competition in the market and complex manufacturing contribute to the high Dificid price, which often makes newer or more targeted medications more costly than older, broad-spectrum antibiotics.

Understanding Recurrence Risks

Up to 1 in 4 people who recover from a C. difficile infection may experience a recurrence. This risk increases in people over age 65, those who are immunocompromised, and anyone who has had multiple courses of antibiotics. If you’ve had C. difficile before, even a minor imbalance in your gut bacteria can trigger it again.

Knowing the early signs, like persistent diarrhea, stomach cramps, or fever, can help you get treated quickly. Doctors may consider different treatment strategies for repeat infections, including longer antibiotic courses or alternative therapies like fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT). Preventing future episodes often involves protecting gut health through careful medication use and diet.

What to Eat During and After Treatment

While recovering from a C. difficile infection, your digestive system needs time to heal. During treatment, stick to easy-to-digest foods like plain rice, toast, bananas, applesauce, and broths. Avoid spicy, fatty, or high-fiber foods that can worsen diarrhea or stomach discomfort.

After the infection clears, slowly reintroduce healthy, gut-friendly foods. Incorporate probiotic-rich items like yogurt, kefir, or fermented vegetables to help replenish beneficial bacteria. Drinking fluids and eating smaller meals more frequently can also support digestion during recovery.

How to Prevent C. difficile Infections

Preventing C. difficile starts with good hygiene and smart antibiotic use. Always wash your hands with soap and water after using the bathroom and before eating alcohol-based sanitizers may not kill C. difficile spores. In hospital or nursing home settings, be extra cautious about touching surfaces and ensure healthcare workers follow infection control protocols.

Avoid using antibiotics unless necessary. Overuse or misuse can disrupt the balance of good bacteria in your gut, creating a perfect environment for C. difficile to grow. Talk to your doctor about the safest treatment options and whether your antibiotic use is genuinely needed.

Conclusion

C. difficile can be a challenging infection to manage, especially after multiple relapses. Dificid 200 mg offers a targeted, effective treatment that preserves gut health while fighting off the infection. With fewer recurrences and a patient-friendly dosing schedule, it’s a strong option for first-time and repeat infections.

If you’re exploring treatment options, visit our Dificid Product Page for full prescribing information, guidance, and support.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I take Dificid if I have a history of IBS or other gut issues?

Your doctor will evaluate your complete medical history before prescribing it. Since Dificid is gut-specific and minimally absorbed, it’s often better tolerated by those with digestive sensitivities. Still, ongoing symptoms should be closely monitored. It’s important to report any new or worsening abdominal discomfort to your provider during treatment.

Does insurance cover Dificid?

Dificid is often covered by insurance, but it may require prior authorization. Some plans may prefer lower-cost antibiotics first. Patient assistance programs may be available if you’re uninsured or underinsured. Check with both your insurance provider and your pharmacy to confirm your exact coverage and out-of-pocket costs.

Can Dificid be crushed or split?

No, Dificid tablets should be swallowed whole. Crushing or splitting the tablet can reduce its effectiveness. If swallowing is an issue, talk to your doctor about alternatives. Never alter your medication without guidance, as it may impact how well the treatment works.

Does Dificid interfere with other medications?

It has a low risk of drug interactions, but always share your complete medication list with your provider. Some interactions are possible, particularly with blood thinners or immunosuppressants. A pharmacist or doctor can verify compatibility. Keeping an updated medication list makes it easier to prevent harmful interactions.

What follow-up care is needed after Dificid treatment?

Follow-up typically includes monitoring for symptom recurrence and possibly retesting. Your doctor may also discuss preventive strategies to reduce reinfection risk. Ongoing gut health support, such as probiotics or dietary changes, may be recommended. Scheduling regular check-ins can help detect and manage recurrences early.

Can I drink alcohol while taking Dificid?

There’s no direct interaction between Dificid and alcohol, but alcohol can irritate the gut and worsen symptoms. Limiting or avoiding alcohol during treatment supports recovery. It’s best to prioritize hydration and gut-friendly habits while healing. If you’re unsure, ask your doctor whether occasional alcohol use is safe for your situation.