Could a Mucus-Busting supplement boost an IBS drug?

NCT ID NCT06727422

Recruiting now Symptom relief Sponsor: Mark Pimentel, MD Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study tests whether adding the supplement N-acetylcysteine (NAC) to the antibiotic rifaximin can better relieve symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea (IBS-D). The idea is that NAC may break down mucus in the gut, helping rifaximin work more effectively. The trial will enroll 225 adults with IBS-D who still have symptoms despite standard care. Participants will receive one of two doses of the combination or a placebo for several weeks, and researchers will track changes in abdominal pain and stool consistency.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: rifaximin and N-acetylcysteine (NAC) combination
What this could lead to: If it works, this could offer a more effective treatment for IBS-D symptoms, reducing abdominal pain and diarrhea better than current options.
What could go wrong: This is an early phase 2b trial with only 225 participants. The combination is not yet approved, and it may not prove more effective than rifaximin alone. Side effects are possible.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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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.

IBS (IRRITABLE BOWEL SYNDROME) IBS-D (DIARRHEA-PREDOMINANT)

Contacts and locations

Locations

Cedars-Sinai Medical Center
RECRUITING

Los Angeles, California, 90048, United States

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