Evidence supporting the use of: Lactiplantibacillus plantarum
For the health condition: Antibiotics (side effects of)

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Synopsis

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

Lactiplantibacillus plantarum is a probiotic bacterium commonly used to support gut health, especially in the context of antibiotic-associated side effects such as diarrhea and disruption of the intestinal microbiota. The scientific rationale for its use lies in its ability to survive passage through the gastrointestinal tract, adhere to the intestinal mucosa, and competitively inhibit pathogenic bacteria. Multiple randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses have demonstrated that certain strains of L. plantarum (as well as other probiotics) can reduce the incidence and severity of antibiotic-associated diarrhea (AAD) in both adults and children. For example, a 2019 meta-analysis in the journal Frontiers in Cellular and Infection Microbiology highlighted L. plantarum’s efficacy in preventing AAD and restoring gut microbiota diversity after antibiotic use. The mechanism is believed to involve modulation of immune responses, inhibition of pathogen colonization, and restoration of beneficial commensal bacteria depleted by antibiotic therapy.

While not all studies are uniformly positive, and the efficacy can depend on the specific strain and probiotic formulation, the overall weight of evidence supports the use of L. plantarum as an adjunct to antibiotics to mitigate gastrointestinal side effects. Major health organizations, including the World Gastroenterology Organisation, recommend probiotics (including L. plantarum) for this purpose, albeit with the caveat that strain and patient selection are important. Thus, the use of L. plantarum for supporting recovery from antibiotic side effects is scientifically validated and supported by a moderate to strong evidence base.

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