Fecal microbiota transfer for treating initial Clostridioides difficile infections

Fecal Microbiota Transplantation in Initial Clostridioides Difficile Enteritis: a Randomized, Placebo-controlled Trial

NA · Turku University Hospital · NCT05257538

This study is testing whether a fecal microbiota transfer treatment can help people who are having their first Clostridioides difficile infection by restoring their gut health and preventing the infection from coming back.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment140 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 120 Years
SexAll
SponsorTurku University Hospital (other gov)
Locations1 site (Turku)
Trial IDNCT05257538 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the use of fecal microbiota transfer (FMT) via retention enema as a treatment for patients experiencing their first episode of Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI). The approach aims to restore the gut microbiota, which is often disrupted by antibiotic treatments, thereby reducing the risk of recurrence. Participants will receive either the FMT or a placebo enema, and the study will assess the effectiveness of this method in preventing CDI recurrence. The study is conducted at multiple hospitals in Finland, focusing on patients who meet specific eligibility criteria.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adults over 18 years old who have a confirmed diagnosis of CDI and have shown clinical symptoms.

Not a fit: Patients who are pregnant, have ongoing antibacterial treatment, or have had a prior CDI in the last three months may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this treatment could significantly reduce the recurrence of CDI in patients after their first episode.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results for FMT in treating recurrent CDI, indicating that this approach may be effective for initial infections as well.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* \>18 years
* C. difficile PCR in feces positive and clinical symptoms of enteritis.
* Full resolution of diarrhea during antibiotic treatment for C. difficile
* No other ongoing antibacterial treatments.
* No ongoing probiotics.
* Signed informed consent.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Pregnant
* Ongoing need for antibacterial treatment
* Life expectancy \< 1 year
* Prior C. difficile infection in preceding 3 months
* Unable to provide written consent, due to dementia for example.
* Fecal incontinence i.e. inability to retain enema.

Where this trial is running

Turku

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Clostridioides Difficile Infection

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.