Breath test may guide IBS-D treatment choices

NCT ID NCT03729271

Completed Knowledge-focused Sponsor: University of Michigan Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study looked at whether a simple breath test can help predict which people with diarrhea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome (IBS-D) will respond to the drug rifaximin. 148 participants took rifaximin and completed breath tests and surveys. The goal was to see if the breath test could identify those most likely to get relief from abdominal pain and diarrhea.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: rifaximin (Xifaxan)
What this could lead to: If successful, this could help doctors identify which IBS-D patients are most likely to benefit from rifaximin, making treatment more personalized.
What could go wrong: This is a completed Phase 4 study focused on prediction, not a new treatment. The breath test may not reliably predict response, and results may not apply to all IBS-D patients.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

irritable bowel syndrome

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

IRRITABLE BOWEL SYNDROME IRRITABLE BOWEL SYNDROME WITH DIARRHEA

Contacts and locations

Locations

University of Michigan

Ann Arbor, Michigan, 48109, United States

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