Xylitol Use for Decolonization of C. Difficile in Patients With IBD

Xylitol is a sugar alcohol and considered a GRAS substance by the FDA. Xylitol is also an FDA approved as a food additive. Xylitol will be used as a treatment for the decolonization of C. difficile and will be given in gel capsules. The xylitol provided will be prepared by the BWH investigational drug service and ordered from MEDISCA suppliers. It will be 100% pure. Xylitol has a distinct taste and therefore it will be administered in gel capsules as opposed to an oral solution to maintain blinding.

The placebo will be administered by the BWH investigational drug services. The placebo will be composed of cellulose microcrystal.