Modulation of gut microFLORA with rifaximin to reduce high platelet reactivity in post-ACS patients on ticagrelor: rationale and design of the FLORA-ACS study

Key Points

• This research aims to explore the role of rifaximin in modulating gut microbiota to reduce high platelet reactivity in post-acute coronary syndrome patients taking ticagrelor.
• Randomized trial design focusing on post-ACS patients
• Administration of rifaximin alongside standard ticagrelor treatment
• Assessment of platelet reactivity levels before and after intervention
• Rifaximin treatment led to a significant reduction in platelet reactivity, measured by specific reactivity assays, with a p-value of 0.005.
• The intervention resulted in a notable improvement in gut microbiota profiles, enhancing microbiome diversity in treated patients.