Could a Mucus-Busting supplement boost an IBS drug?

NCT ID NCT06727422

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.

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

Study contacts

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

Locations

  • Cedars-Sinai Medical Center

    RECRUITING

    Los Angeles, California, 90048, United States

    Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••