Synopsis

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

Lactobacillus acidophilus is a probiotic bacterium commonly used to help manage the side effects of antibiotics, particularly antibiotic-associated diarrhea (AAD). The rationale is that antibiotics, while targeting pathogenic bacteria, can also disrupt the normal gut microbiota, leading to gastrointestinal side effects such as diarrhea, bloating, and discomfort. Supplementing with L. acidophilus is believed to help restore the balance of beneficial bacteria in the gut.

Multiple randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses have evaluated the efficacy of L. acidophilus and other probiotics in reducing the incidence and severity of AAD. For example, a 2012 meta-analysis published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) found that probiotics, including L. acidophilus, significantly decreased the risk of AAD in both children and adults. The mechanism is thought to involve competitive inhibition of pathogenic bacteria, enhancement of the gut barrier, and modulation of the immune response.

However, while many studies support the use of probiotics for this purpose, results are not universally consistent, and differences in probiotic strains, dosages, and patient populations contribute to variability in outcomes. The overall evidence is moderate, justifying its use in certain cases, particularly for the prevention of mild to moderate antibiotic-associated gastrointestinal side effects. Nonetheless, probiotics are generally considered safe for most individuals, though caution is advised in immunocompromised patients. More research is needed to clarify optimal strains, dosages, and patient groups that benefit most.

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