Synopsis

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

Probiotics have been studied as supportive therapy for patients undergoing chemotherapy, primarily to reduce gastrointestinal side effects such as diarrhea and mucositis. Chemotherapy can disrupt the balance of intestinal microbiota and damage the gut mucosa, leading to symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, and increased risk of infection. Multiple randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and meta-analyses have investigated the efficacy of probiotics in this context. Some studies have shown that certain probiotic strains—particularly Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG and Bifidobacterium species—may reduce the incidence and severity of chemotherapy-induced diarrhea and oral mucositis, especially in pediatric and adult cancer patients receiving intensive regimens. A 2023 systematic review and meta-analysis in Frontiers in Oncology concluded that probiotics could significantly reduce the risk and severity of diarrhea in cancer patients receiving chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy, though results can vary by cancer type, probiotic strain, and dose. Safety is generally good, but there is caution in immunocompromised patients due to rare reports of bacteremia or sepsis. Current clinical guidelines do not universally recommend probiotics for all chemotherapy patients, but they are considered a promising adjunct in certain contexts. Overall, the evidence base is moderate, and further large-scale, well-designed RCTs are needed to clarify which patients and probiotic formulations may benefit most.

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