New analysis from a real-world study demonstrates that first-line use of fidaxomicin is clinically effective in reducing recurrence rates and lowering mortality, and provides cost savings for the treatment of potentially fatal Clostridium difficileinfection (CDI).
Initial analysis, pooled from five trial centres across the UK who introduced fidaxomicin between July and December 2012, were presented at the Federation of Infection Societies (FIS) Conference. The analysis supports clinical trial data in highlighting dramatically reduced recurrence rates (74% relative reduction) in those treated first-line with fidaxomicin, compared with standard of care treatments, vancomycin and metronidazole. Commenting on the findings, Dr Simon Goldenberg, consultant microbiologist and infection control doctor at Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, said: “The analysis of these service evaluations highlight the potential improved outcomes that could be achieved with this new approach to CDI management. In the last 10 years we have drastically reduced rates of CDI in the UK through stringent hospital hygiene protocols and infection prevention measures, yet recurrence remains an issue.
“This analysis supports a growing consensus that fidaxomicin should be used first line in all patients diagnosed with CDI to address recurrence, improve patient outcomes and ultimately save valuable NHS resources.”
