Clinical Research Directory

STOP-CDI: Efficacy of Fecal Microbiota Transplantation vs Fidaxomicin vs Vancomycin in Treating and Preventing Relapse of Clostridioides Difficile Infection

The STOP-CDI study is a multicenter, randomized, open-label, three-arm clinical trial comparing the efficacy of fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) preceded by vancomycin, fidaxomicin monotherapy, and standard-of-care vancomycin in preventing recurrence of Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI) in high-risk adult patients. CDI is a common healthcare-associated infection with rising incidence and high recurrence rates, particularly in elderly and immunocompromised individuals. While current guidelines recommend fidaxomicin as first-line therapy, its availability and reimbursement remain limited in some healthcare systems. FMT, although effective, is not widely implemented as first-line treatment. This study addresses the need for comparative, real-world data to inform treatment decisions for patients at high risk of severe or recurrent CDI. Eligible participants include adults aged ≥65 years or younger patients with specific risk factors such as multiple comorbidities, prior CDI episodes, recent hospitalization, use of non-CDI antibiotics, or PPI therapy. Participants will be randomized in a 2:1:1 ratio to one of three treatment arms: (1) vancomycin plus FMT, (2) fidaxomicin, or (3) vancomycin alone. FMT is administered via capsules or, if necessary, alternative endoscopic routes. The primary endpoint is CDI recurrence within 12 weeks following the initial treatment. Secondary endpoints include clinical cure, safety, and global cure. Exploratory analyses will assess microbiome changes and potential genomic predictors of response. A total of 424 participants will be enrolled across 10 clinical sites in Poland. The study aims to provide robust, comparative evidence to support clinical guidelines and improve outcomes for patients with CDI, particularly in healthcare systems with limited access to novel therapies.