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

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 4

Lactobacillus rhamnosus, particularly the GG strain (L. rhamnosus GG), is widely used to support or treat the side effects of antibiotics, especially antibiotic-associated diarrhea (AAD). The scientific evidence supporting its use is robust. Multiple randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses have shown that L. rhamnosus GG can significantly reduce the risk of AAD in both children and adults. The proposed mechanism is that L. rhamnosus helps restore the balance of the gut microbiota, which is often disrupted by antibiotic therapy. This probiotic strain can inhibit the growth of pathogenic bacteria, enhance the intestinal barrier function, and modulate immune responses in the gut.

For example, a 2019 Cochrane review analyzed data from over 30 studies and found that probiotics, especially L. rhamnosus GG, reduced the incidence of antibiotic-associated diarrhea by about 50% compared to placebo. Other studies have demonstrated effectiveness in preventing Clostridioides difficile infection, a serious complication of antibiotic use, though results for this particular outcome are more mixed.

Based on this body of evidence, clinical guidelines in several countries recommend considering the use of L. rhamnosus GG in patients at risk of AAD, especially children. While not all individuals will benefit, and some immunocompromised patients should avoid probiotics, the evidence for L. rhamnosus in mitigating antibiotic side effects is strong and well-validated.

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