Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI) is a global health challenge, often linked to healthcare settings and recurring due to persistent gut dysbiosis after antibiotic treatment. While antibiotics remain standard, their limited efficacy in preventing recurrence has highlighted the potential of fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT). However, FMT’s lack of standardization raises safety and reproducibility concerns. Recent advancements, such as VOWST (VOS), an FDA-approved oral live biotherapeutic, address these challenges. Containing Firmicutes spores, VOS restores gut microbiota diversity, preventing CDI recurrence. Clinical trials like ECOSPOR III demonstrated VOS’s sustained efficacy, significantly reducing recurrence rates and improving quality of life, establishing it as a noninvasive, patient-friendly alternative in CDI management.
Approved in 2023, VOS is the first oral microbiota-based therapeutic for preventing recurrent CDI in adults. Administered over three days following standard antibiotic regimens, it offers a convenient outpatient solution with mild gastrointestinal side effects. Support programs like VOWST VOYAGE enhance accessibility. VOS marks a significant step forward in reducing CDI recurrence, improving outcomes, and advancing patient care.
Reference: Berry P, Khanna S. Fecal microbiota spores, live-brpk (VOWST™/VOS) for prevention of recurrent Clostridioides difficile infection. Future Microbiol. 2024 Sep 25:1-10. doi: 10.1080/17460913.2024.2403892. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 39320321.
