Probiotics for the prevention of Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea in adults and children
Goldenberg JZ, Yap C, Lytvyn L, Lo CK, Beardsley J, Mertz D, Johnston BC
Published in Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews
Methodology
Cochrane systematic review and meta-analysis of 39 randomized controlled trials of probiotics given with antibiotics to prevent C. difficile-associated diarrhoea
Key Findings
Probiotics reduced the incidence of C. difficile-associated diarrhoea by about 60% (RR 0.40, 95% CI 0.30-0.52; moderate certainty), with the benefit concentrated in trials where baseline CDAD risk exceeded 5%.
Conclusions
Moderate-certainty evidence supports short-term probiotic use alongside antibiotics in patients at higher risk of C. difficile-associated diarrhoea.
Limitations
Benefit not demonstrable in low-baseline-risk populations; strains and doses varied widely; few trials in immunocompromised patients.
Supplements Studied
Moderate certainty evidence suggests that probiotics are effective for preventing Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea.
Outcomes Measured
Probiotics given alongside antibiotics reduced the incidence of Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhoea, consistent with protection of colonisation resistance.
Related Health Concerns
Study Details
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Disclosures
Funding
Academic / Cochrane; no commercial sponsorship
This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen.