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Overview: Vowst is used after antibiotic treatment for recurrent infection with Clostridioides difficile to prevent another C. difficile infection. Vowst works by providing good bacteria in your gut. Constipation, chills, and diarrhea may be side effects of this medicine. Follow the directions given to you by your health care provider about how and when to take Vowst.

Uses

What is Vowst used for?

Vowst (fecal microbiota spores, live-brpk) is commonly used after antibiotic treatment for recurrent infection with Clostridioides difficile to prevent another C. difficile infection.

Vowst may also be used for other conditions as determined by your health care provider.

See also: Rebyota

How does Vowst work (mechanism of action)?

Vowst provides bacteria to your gut after you have been treated for C. difficile, which may help you from having the C. difficile infection come back.

How is Vowst supplied (dosage forms)?

Brands and other names

  • Vowst

Dosage forms and strengths

  • One bottle containing 12 oral capsules

How should I store Vowst?

Vowst should be stored in the refrigerator or at room temperature, between 36 F and 77 F (2 C and 25 C). Store in a cool, dry place. Do not store it in the freezer. Keep the medicine in its original container.

Side Effects

What are the most common side effects of Vowst?

The most common side effects of Vowst are listed below. Tell your health care provider if you have any of these side effects that bother you.

  • Swelling of your stomach area
  • Tiredness
  • Constipation
  • Chills
  • Diarrhea

There may be other side effects of Vowst that are not listed here. Contact your health care provider if you think you are having a side effect of a medicine. In the U.S., you can report side effects to the FDA at www.fda.gov/medwatch or by calling 800-FDA-1088 (800-332-1088). In Canada, you can report side effects to Health Canada at www.health.gc.ca/medeffect or by calling 866-234-2345.

What are the serious side effects of Vowst?

While less common, the most serious side effects of Vowst are described below, along with what to do if they happen.

Severe Allergic Reactions. Vowst may cause allergic reactions, which can be serious. Stop taking Vowst and get help right away if you have any of the following symptoms of a serious allergic reaction.

  • Breathing problems or wheezing
  • Racing heart
  • Fever or general ill feeling
  • Swollen lymph nodes
  • Swelling of the face, lips, mouth, tongue, or throat
  • Trouble swallowing or throat tightness
  • Itching, skin rash, or pale red bumps on the skin called hives
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Dizziness, feeling lightheaded, or fainting
  • Stomach cramps
  • Joint pain

Risk of Infection. The process of making Vowst involves the use of human substances. It is possible that these substances may carry germs that can cause infections. While steps are taken to reduce this risk, there is still a small chance you could get an infection. Some infections may not cause symptoms. Keep all medical appointments after taking Vowst so your health care provider can monitor your health. Talk to your health care provider about any concerns you may have.

Warnings & Precautions

Who should not use Vowst?

Allergies to Ingredients. People who are allergic to any of the following should not take Vowst.

  • Fecal microbiota spores, live-brpk
  • Vowst
  • Any of the ingredients in the specific product dispensed

Your pharmacist can tell you all of the ingredients in Vowst.

What should I know about Vowst before using it?

Do not take Vowst unless it has been prescribed to you by a health care provider. Take it as prescribed.

Do not share Vowst with other people, even if they have the same condition as you. It may harm them.

Keep Vowst out of the reach of children. If this medicine is stored in the refrigerator, take special precautions to keep it away from children who also use the refrigerator.

Make sure to finish your antibiotic treatment for C. difficile before you start taking Vowst. Your health care provider will let you know when to start taking Vowst after you finish your antibiotic. Talk to your health care provider if you have any questions about when to start taking Vowst.

Your health care provider will likely tell you to take a laxative before your first dose of Vowst. Follow your health care provider’s instructions on which laxative to take and when to take it.

Swallow each Vowst capsule whole. Do not crush, chew, or break the capsules.

What should I tell my health care provider before using Vowst?

Tell your health care provider about all of your health conditions and any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using. This will help them determine if Vowst is right for you.

In particular, make sure that you discuss if you have any kidney problems. You may need to take a specific type of laxative before taking Vowst.

Food Allergies. Vowst is made using other people’s stool (poop) and may contain food allergens as donors are not asked to follow any dietary restrictions. The potential for Vowst to cause reactions in people with food allergies is unknown. Tell your health care provider if you have any food allergies.

Drug Interactions. Vowst should not be taken while you are using certain other medicines. Before taking Vowst, tell your health care provider about any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using. See the Interactions section for more details.

Pregnancy. It is not known if or how Vowst could affect pregnancy or harm a fetus. Tell your health care provider if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.

Breastfeeding. It is not known if Vowst passes into breast milk. Tell your health care provider if you are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. Your health care provider will let you know if you should take Vowst while breastfeeding.

How can I get more information about Vowst?

For more information about Vowst, you can visit the drugmaker’s website at www.vowst.com or call them at 833-246-2566.

Interactions

Does Vowst interact with foods or drinks?

Vowst should be taken on an empty stomach before the first meal of the day. Do not eat or drink anything except a small amount of water at least eight hours before your first dose of Vowst.

There are no known interactions between Vowst and alcohol, but heavy drinking can slow your immune response and make it harder for your body to fight infection.

Does Vowst interact with other medicines (drug interactions)?

Always tell your health care provider about any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using.

In particular, make sure that you discuss if you are taking an antibiotic. Antibiotics can make Vowst not work as well, which is why you have to wait a few days after stopping your antibiotic for C. difficile to start taking Vowst.

This may not be a complete list of medicines that can interact with Vowst. Always check with your health care provider.

Does interact with other drugs you are taking?

Enter your medication into the WebMD interaction checker

Overdose/Missed Dose

What should I do if I accidentally use too much Vowst?

If you or someone else has used too much Vowst, get medical help right away, call 911, or contact a Poison Control center at 800-222-1222.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Vowst?

Missing doses of Vowst can cause it to not work as well. So it is important not to miss or skip doses.

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and only take the next dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

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