Which antibiotics are most commonly associated with C. difficile infections?

Clindamycin and ampicillin are recognized as antibiotics that have a significant association with Clostridium difficile infections. Clindamycin, in particular, has a well-documented link to C. difficile due to its broad-spectrum activity, which disrupts the normal gut flora and allows for the overgrowth of C. difficile. Ampicillin, being a penicillin-type antibiotic, is also associated with this risk, particularly in hospitalized patients.

C. difficile infection is often a consequence of antibiotic use because antibiotics can disrupt the delicate balance of the gut microbiome, leading to an environment where C. difficile can flourish. This disruption can lead to antibiotic-associated diarrhea and more severe complications like colitis.

While other antibiotics listed may contribute to the risk to varying degrees, clindamycin and ampicillin are specifically highlighted due to their strong ties in clinical settings to increased rates of C. difficile infections.