Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Lactobacillus rhamnosus is not an antibiotic alternative per se, but it is often used as an adjunct to antibiotics to support gut health and prevent or treat antibiotic-associated disturbances, particularly diarrhea. There is scientific evidence supporting the use of L. rhamnosus (especially the GG strain) for reducing the risk of antibiotic-associated diarrhea (AAD), including Clostridioides difficile-associated diarrhea, in both adults and children. Several randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses have shown that taking L. rhamnosus GG alongside antibiotics significantly lowers the incidence of diarrhea compared to placebo. The mechanism is thought to involve restoring the balance of gut microbiota disrupted by antibiotics and enhancing gut barrier function. However, L. rhamnosus is not an alternative to antibiotics for treating infections; it does not possess direct antibacterial activity against pathogens responsible for the infections antibiotics are prescribed for. Its role is supportive—mainly to mitigate side effects of antibiotics, rather than replace them. Consequently, while there is scientific validation for its use to support patients during antibiotic therapy, it should not be considered an alternative to antibiotics themselves.

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