It is well-established that antibiotics — especially the broad-spectrum ones — can increase the risk of Clostridioides difficile (C. difficile) by disrupting the gut microbiome, creating favorable conditions for the C. difficile bacteria to prosper. C. difficile is not a minor problem. It is a leading cause of infections acquired in healthcare settings. Infections cause diarrhea, which can be mild or severe, but serious cases can result in complications and even death. Care for patients with C. difficile stretches hospital resources and hits payers with additional bills for longer hospital stays and more intense services.

Although the broad outlines are understood, many of the details about which patients are vulnerable to C. difficile and which antibiotics are responsible remain unclea

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