Evidence supporting the use of: Lactobacillus brevis
For the health condition: Antibiotics (side effects of)

Links: Go back one page, Tool main page, Ingredients list, Health conditions list, Body systems list

Synopsis

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

Lactobacillus brevis is a probiotic bacterium that has been studied for its potential to support gut health, particularly during or after antibiotic use. Antibiotics can disrupt the balance of the gut microbiota, often leading to side effects such as diarrhea, bloating, and increased risk of opportunistic infections like Clostridioides difficile. The rationale for using L. brevis is based on its ability to help restore the natural microbial balance in the intestine and inhibit the growth of pathogens through production of lactic acid and other antimicrobial substances.

Several studies have demonstrated that probiotics, as a group, can reduce the incidence and severity of antibiotic-associated diarrhea (AAD). While most clinical trials have focused on species like Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG or Lactobacillus casei, there is emerging evidence that L. brevis may also contribute to recolonization and modulation of immune responses in the gut. Some in vitro and animal studies support the role of L. brevis in suppressing pathogenic bacteria and enhancing gut barrier function. However, direct clinical evidence specifically for L. brevis in preventing or treating antibiotic side effects is still limited compared to more extensively studied probiotic strains.

In summary, there is a scientific rationale and some supportive evidence for the use of Lactobacillus brevis to alleviate antibiotic-associated side effects, but high-quality, strain-specific human clinical trials remain relatively sparse. Its use is best considered as part of a multi-strain probiotic formula rather than as a sole intervention.

More about lactobacillus brevis
More about Antibiotics (side effects of)