Which antibiotic is specifically indicated for Clostridium difficile (C. Diff) infections?

Fidaxomicin is specifically indicated for Clostridium difficile infections due to its unique mechanism and targeted action within the gut. This antibiotic is a narrow-spectrum macrolide that inhibits RNA polymerase, thereby effectively disrupting the protein synthesis of C. diff. Its selective activity helps to minimize disruption of the normal gut flora, which is crucial because the restoration of healthy intestinal bacteria is an important aspect of recovery from a C. diff infection.

Vancomycin is also used to treat C. diff, particularly in severe cases, but it is given intravenously for other types of infections and is less targeted than fidaxomicin, which is preferred for its effectiveness and lower recurrence rates. Amikacin and Polymyxin E are not indicated for C. diff and are used primarily for other types of bacterial infections, making them unsuitable options for treating this specific pathogen. Therefore, fidaxomicin is the optimal choice for addressing C. difficile infections specifically.