c.diff anti-infectives C8

Question 1

Why are c.diff meds given via the oral routewhat route are c.diff meds given and why

Answer 1

oral
cant do iv as this would bypass GI tract where the infection resides

Question 2

causes of c.diff

Answer 2

recent use of broad spectra abx = upset natural gut flora and colonisation of c.diff bacteria

Question 3

what abx used to treat c diff

Answer 3

vancomycin
fidaxomicin
metronidazole

Question 4

MOA vancomycin and monitoring

Answer 4

Inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding to D-Ala-D-Ala terminus of peptidoglycan precursors

oral form is not systemicallt absorbed hence it is first line and also allows it to act locally for C.diff

monitor:
- symptomatic imporvement
TDM and renal monitoring not needed as not systemically absorbed

Question 5

MOA & monitoring fidaxomicin

Answer 5

macrolide
Inhibits bacterial RNA polymerase → blocks transcription. = bactericidal

Question 6

how does C.diff cause diarrhoea

Answer 6

increase in toxin levels damages colon lining, causing diarrhoea