Breath test may guide IBS-D treatment choices

NCT ID NCT03729271

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.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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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.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • University of Michigan

    Ann Arbor, Michigan, 48109, United States