A Case Control Study to evaluates the Efficacy and Tolerability of short course of Rifaximin and Metronidazole in Diarrhoea dominant irritable bowel syndrome in west Bengal

Abstract

Background: IBS-D is a prevalent functional GI disorder with limited therapeutic options. This study evaluates Rifaximin and Metronidazole in IBS-D management. Objective: Compare efficacy (symptom relief) and tolerability (adverse effects) of Rifaximin, Metronidazole, andnotreatment (control). Methods: Case-control study (n=38) with 19 cases (Rifaximin/Metronidazole) and 19 controls (placebo/no treatment). Primary outcome: IBS-SSS reduction; secondary: adverse events. Statistical Analysis: Odds ratio (OR) for efficacy, Chi-square/Fisher’s exact test for categorical variables, t-test for continuous data. Results: Rifaximin showed significant symptom improvement (OR=4.2, 95% CI: 1.3–13.5) vs. controls. Metronidazole had higher adverse events (OR=3.1). Conclusion: Rifaximin is effective and tolerable; Metronidazole’s use is limited by side effects.